Artificial Saliva

Artificial saliva is a substitute for saliva (spit). Your salivary glands make and release saliva. This fluid acts as a lubricant that protects tissue in your throat and mouth. Saliva breaks down food so it’s easier to taste and swallow, and it flushes away bacteria that can cause cavities.

If you have dry mouth, you don’t have enough spit to help with these things. Most of us know the feeling of discomfort that goes along with having dry mouth. Luckily, it’s usually temporary.

But sometimes, dry mouth is constant and severe. In this case, you may need artificial saliva to help. Saliva substitutes treat dry mouth from:

• Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation therapy to your head and neck
• Diabetes mellitus and other metabolic conditions
• Medication side effects
• Nervous system conditions, like Bell’s palsy, Parkinson’s disease and stroke
• Salivary gland dysfunction
• Sjögren’s syndrome and other autoimmune conditions

Nothing works or feels the same as natural saliva. But artificial saliva comes close. It can provide relief if you’re dealing with chronic dry mouth.

How does this treatment work?

Artificial saliva products mimic the properties of spit. They:

• Make your mouth feel wet
• Coat and protect your mouth and throat
• Cling to germs and flush them out of your mouth
• Stick to food bits, so it’s easier for your teeth to break them down

Some have ingredients that kill germs and add minerals to your teeth.

What forms does artificial saliva come in?

Types vary. The instructions on the package will let you know how and when to apply that specific type. You can buy artificial saliva as a:

• Gel
• Spray
• Mouthwash
• Toothpaste
• Lozenge
• Dissolvable powder

You can get some brands of artificial saliva over the counter. With others, you may need a prescription from your dentist.

What ingredients do they contain?

Ingredients vary based on the product. In general, they may include:

• Base substance: Artificial saliva products contain different key ingredients that imitate the feel of natural saliva. These include animal proteins, carboxymethylcellulose, aloe vera, glycerol, linseed and xanthan gum.
• Saliva stimulators: Saliva substitutes may contain substances, like xylitol, that help your mouth water. These can help if you still have some use of your salivary glands.
• Minerals: Added ingredients like calcium and fluoride can protect your tooth enamel.
• Flavorings: Some products are flavorless. Others may taste like mint or citrus.
• Other ingredients: Some brands contain sodium, dairy products, gluten and other ingredients to round out the brand recipe. Most of these are helpful or at least harmless. But you may be allergic to some. Always check the label first.

What is the best artificial saliva?

There isn’t a single best brand that works better than another. A lot depends on your preferences. For example, you might think it’s easier to use a spray that you can spritz a few times as opposed to a gel that you have to apply. Some people prefer products with flavoring while others don’t. What makes one type the “best” for someone may be how long the effects last. There isn’t one answer.

There are lots of artificial saliva products for dry mouth. Here are just a few examples:

• Aquoral®: Prescription-only mouth spray that you can use three to four times daily
• Biotène® dry mouth products: Gels, lozenges, sprays, mouthwashes and toothpastes
• Mouth Kote® Oral Rinse: Lemon-lime flavored mouth spray
• Numoisyn®: Lozenges that are available by prescription
• Oasis® Moisturizing Mouth: Lubricating mouth spray
• OraCoat XyliMelts®: Dissolvable discs that stick to your teeth or gums

Ask your healthcare provider what they recommend based on what’s causing your dry mouth. Together, you can decide which artificial saliva product is best for you.

How long will I need this treatment?

The effects are short-lived, so you’ll have to keep reapplying to experience the benefits. Depending on the product, you may need to use it first thing in the morning or before going to bed. You may need to apply some several minutes before you eat. With lots of artificial saliva products, you apply them as needed.

Is there anything I can do to make this treatment easier on me?

Artificial saliva often works best when you also do other things to increase saliva production. This includes:

• Chewing sugar-free, flavored gums
• Sucking on sugar-free hard candies, mints and lozenges
• Consuming food and drinks with sour and bitter tastes

It’s also a good idea to take regular sips of water to keep your mouth moist.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Reach out to your provider if a saliva substitute isn’t helping enough. It may be that you haven’t found the right product yet.

Let them know if you’re unsure whether a certain brand is OK to take. In general, artificial saliva products are safe. But you may need to avoid some brands that contain ingredients you’re allergic to.

Your provider can suggest the best options for you.