How can I manage a dry mouth during cancer treatment?

To manage a dry mouth during cancer treatment, NCI suggests drinking plenty of liquids, because a dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and mouth infections.

Keep water handy and sip it often to keep your mouth wet. You can also suck on ice chips or sugar-free hard candy, have frozen desserts, or chew sugar-free gum. Use a lip balm to protect your lips, and ask your healthcare team about medicines such as saliva substitutes that can coat, protect, and moisten your mouth and throat. Acupuncture may also help with dry mouth.

Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is one of several mouth and throat problems that can happen when treatments like radiation therapy to the head and neck, some chemotherapy, or some immunotherapy affect the mouth. Because a dry mouth can raise the risk of tooth decay, it also helps to check and clean your mouth daily and keep up with dental care. Your healthcare team can suggest steps and medicines that fit your situation.