Do You Know About Xerostomia and Sjögren’s Syndrome?

Xerostomia is the clinical term for dry mouth, a condition that affects between 10 and 30% of people.

Despite its prevalence, research shows that the symptoms of dry mouth are often overlooked by patients and general dental practitioners, despite widespread education about the condition. Many patients don’t notice it or aren’t fully aware of its harmful potential.

However, when symptoms are present, dry mouth is not just unpleasant. There are actually a number of serious illnesses related to xerostomia – like Sjögren’s syndrome.

Sjögren’s Syndrome

Most practitioners are aware of the effects of xerostomia. The condition is linked to tooth decay, mucosal infections, and salivary gland disease. This can range from mild to very uncomfortable for patients.

People with chronic or acute dry mouth often have difficulties eating, swallowing, and speaking. According to one study, people with xerostomia may also experience reduced self-esteem.

But the effects of xerostomia, and the illness itself, may be symptoms of a wider physical ailment, such as diabetes, nerve damage, or the rare but serious autoimmune disease Sjögren’s syndrome.

Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome have an increased risk of:

• Dental cavities

• Oral candidiasis (fungal infections)

• Mouth ulcers

• Squamous cell carcinoma

They are also at a higher risk for lymphoma.

However, there is no need for alarm. Sjögren’s syndrome affects only between 0.5% and 3% of the population. Compared to the common occurrence of xerostomia, it remains relatively rare.

While Sjögren’s syndrome is not usually the first condition a dentist considers when diagnosing dry mouth, it is important to remember that even common conditions like xerostomia can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue.

Talk to your dentist about the cause and treatment of xerostomia. You may also want to review our newsletter on the causes of xerostomia, or dry mouth, to learn more about this common condition and its potential health implications.