Dry mouth

Natural and Lifestyle Remedies

Stay Well Hydrated

Many people find that drinking filtered water consistently throughout the day helps reduce symptoms.

A commonly used approach is:

• 500–750 mL filtered water
• A pinch of Celtic sea salt

This may help support hydration and electrolyte balance.

Some individuals also find that reducing fluid intake several hours before bedtime helps decrease nighttime mouth breathing and disrupted sleep.

Use a Humidifier

A bedroom humidifier can increase moisture in the air and may help reduce overnight dryness, especially during winter or in air-conditioned environments.

Encourage Nasal Breathing

Improving tongue posture and encouraging nasal breathing may help reduce mouth dryness caused by mouth breathing.

Proper tongue posture generally involves resting the tongue against the roof of the mouth while keeping the lips gently closed and the jaw relaxed.

Some individuals use mouth taping under professional guidance, although this is not suitable for everyone and should be avoided if nasal breathing is impaired.

Homemade Moisturising Mouth Rinse

Many people report success with a homemade rinse containing:

• 1 cup filtered water
• ¼ cup vegetable glycerine
• 2 tablespoons xylitol
• ¼ teaspoon natural salt
• 5–10 drops peppermint or cinnamon essential oil

Vegetable glycerine acts as a humectant, helping retain moisture on oral tissues.

Xylitol may help reduce harmful bacteria while encouraging saliva flow.

Important: Essential oils are highly concentrated. Excessive amounts may irritate or burn oral tissues. Always use small amounts and discontinue use if irritation develops.

Oral Probiotics

Several individuals reported significant improvements in dry mouth after introducing oral probiotics.

Oral probiotics differ from gut probiotics and are specifically designed to support a healthy oral microbiome.

Common usage instructions:

• Brush teeth before bed.
• Allow one probiotic tablet to slowly dissolve in the mouth.
• Swish the saliva around the teeth and gums.
• Swallow when fully dissolved.

Users commonly take one tablet nightly, following manufacturer instructions.

Xylitol-Based Products

Xylimelts

Many people report excellent results using xylitol-containing discs that adhere to the gums or teeth and slowly release moisture overnight.

Typical usage:

• One to two discs placed inside the lip or cheek before sleep.
• Allow to dissolve gradually throughout the night.

These products may help stimulate saliva production while reducing dryness and bad breath.

Coconut Oil and Oil Pulling

Several individuals reported improvement after using coconut oil before bed.

Common methods include:

Simple Coconut Oil Rinse

• Swish 1 teaspoon coconut oil around the mouth for 1–2 minutes before bed.
• Spit out after use.

Traditional Oil Pulling

• Swish 1 tablespoon coconut oil for 10–15 minutes.
• Spit into a bin rather than a sink.
• Avoid swallowing the oil after swishing.

Some people also brush their teeth with coconut oil.

Coconut Oil-Based Mouthwash

Commercial coconut oil mouthwashes often contain additional ingredients such as:

• Xylitol
• Aloe vera
• Zinc chloride

These ingredients may help support moisture, fresh breath, and oral health.

Olive Oil Rinsing

Some individuals report relief by gargling or swishing approximately 1 tablespoon olive oil before swallowing.

Although anecdotal reports exist, evidence remains limited compared with other dry mouth treatments.

Prescription Options

Cevimeline

Cevimeline is a prescription medication commonly used for dry mouth associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome.

Typical dosage:

• 30 mg three times daily

Only use under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

Remedies That Require Caution

Cloves Held in the Mouth Overnight

Although cloves contain eugenol, which possesses antimicrobial properties, keeping cloves in the mouth overnight carries several risks:

• Choking or aspiration
• Chemical burns
• Mouth ulcers
• Gum irritation
• Allergic reactions
• Tissue damage

Several individuals reported blistering and painful oral irritation after prolonged exposure.

Essential Oils

Peppermint and cinnamon oils should always be heavily diluted before oral use. Excessive concentrations may cause burns and irritation.