Effective Approaches to Addressing Xerostomia

By Roxanne Dsouza, MS, RDH, Jamie Burgess-Flowers, MSW, LCSW and Kimberly Sanders, PharmD, BCPS

Affecting upwards of 29% of patients, xerostomia, or the subjective feeling of dry mouth, is associated with a variety of etiologies. Dental hygienists are at the forefront of care for patients with xerostomia and must be knowledgeable of common signs, symptoms, and management. While oral health professionals play a key role in identifying and treating xerostomia, nondental factors may also be related. An interprofessional approach can optimize care and address the potential behavioral and systemic components related to xerostomia. Table 1 presents a case about the fictitious patient, Wanda Bradsher. The case explores her oral health-related factors, assessment findings, and her medical and social histories in support of a holistic approach to care.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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