Xerostomia (dry mouth) may be a side-effect of medication. It is also caused by irradiation of the head and neck region or by damage to or disease of the salivary glands. Patients with a persistently dry mouth may develop a burning or scalded sensation and have poor oral hygiene. They are prone to increased dental caries, periodontal disease, oral infections (particularly candidiasis) and intolerance of dentures.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/doctor/gastroenterology/dry-mouth-xerostomia