Frothy, thick, or stringy saliva is a serious dental problem—but it’s easily managed if you take the right steps!
You probably don’t think much about your saliva. It quietly keeps your mouth moist, helps you chew and swallow, and even contains enzymes that aid digestion. But did you know that saliva is essential for your oral health, too?
Healthy saliva is clear and flows normally in response to stimuli. For instance, dry mouth is common when you’re nervous, while just thinking about your favorite meal can boost saliva levels. However, if your saliva becomes consistently thick, foamy, or stringy, it may be a sign that something’s off—and it’s time to talk to your Espire dentist.
Why Is My Saliva Foamy?
The most likely reason for frothy or sticky saliva is dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. This condition can result from a variety of causes:
Medications
Prescription and over-the-counter drugs—such as those for high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, pain, and allergies—can reduce your body’s saliva production.
Chronic Conditions
Diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, and oral yeast infections (thrush) can all cause dry mouth. So can snoring or mouth breathing, especially during sleep.
Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy and radiation to the head or neck can impact the salivary glands. The effects may be temporary or permanent, depending on the treatment’s intensity and location.
Tobacco & Alcohol Use
Both smoking and alcohol are known to dry out the mouth and interfere with saliva production.
How to Treat Foamy or Stringy Saliva
While annoying, foamy saliva is more than just a nuisance—it can lead to serious dental issues. Saliva protects your teeth and gums by washing away food, plaque, and bacteria. Without enough of it, you’re at greater risk of cavities and gum disease.
Try these steps to manage and improve dry mouth symptoms:
- Sip water frequently. Keep a water bottle nearby and drink regularly throughout the day.
- Talk to your doctor about medications. Don’t stop taking your prescriptions, but ask whether any adjustments could ease dry mouth symptoms.
- Use oral lubricants. Look for mouth rinses or sprays with xylitol or antimicrobial properties.
- Chew sugar-free gum or lozenges. These can help stimulate your salivary glands.
- Ask your dentist about prescription options. Medications like pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac) can increase saliva production.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist twice a year. If dry mouth is severe, your dentist may recommend fluoride trays or a chlorhexidine rinse to help prevent decay.
Saliva Is a Big Part of Oral Health
Your oral health is about more than just fighting cavities—it’s also about maintaining healthy saliva! If you’re noticing foamy or thick saliva, don’t wait. Talk to an Espire Dental professional about what’s causing the change and how to treat it.
Let’s Talk About Your Mouth
Schedule an appointment at Espire Dental today! Our highly trained dentists can evaluate your symptoms and help restore moisture—and comfort—to your smile.
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