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Your saliva does more than just keep your mouth lubricated:
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| It helps protect your teeth from the acids and sugars in your diet, helping to prevent tooth decay |
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| It helps remove bacteria and residual food from your mouth which can cause tooth decay and gum disease |
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| It helps keep the tissues of your mouth including your tongue, lips, cheeks and gums healthy |
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| It helps you to swallow and digest food and even helps with taste |
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If your mouth is dry you might notice the following symptoms:
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| Sticky or stringy saliva |
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| Cracked or chapped lips |
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| A need to drink water which can lead to frequent urination and interrupted sleep |
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Increased tooth decay or
bleeding gums
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| Lipstick sticking to your teeth |
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| A rough tongue |
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| A sore or sensitive mouth |
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| Bad breath |
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| Difficulty swallowing dry foods |
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| Dentures may not stay in place |
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