March 14, 2025

How Anxiety Causes Dry Mouth: Connections and Remedies

By Dr. Flora Stay

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the U.S. (1). Additionally, studies estimate that 10% to 40% of individuals with anxiety also suffer from dry mouth (2). If you experience anxiety or chronic stress, you may have noticed an uncomfortable dryness in your mouth – but what exactly is the connection?

The Essential Role of Saliva

Saliva is produced by the salivary glands and plays a crucial role in maintaining oral and digestive health. It is responsible for:

Keeping the mouth moist. The mucous membranes in the mouth require moisture to protect against bacteria, toxins, and irritation. Saliva acts as a natural lubricant.
Aiding digestion. Saliva moistens food, making it easier to chew and swallow. It also contains the enzyme amylase, which helps break down carbohydrates.
Preventing tooth decay and infections. Enzymes like lysozyme help destroy harmful bacteria, while calcium hydroxyapatite helps protect teeth from demineralization.
Maintaining a neutral pH. Saliva neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, helping prevent enamel erosion.
Enhancing taste. Saliva dissolves food particles, making them more accessible to taste buds.

What is dry mouth?

Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This can lead to:

Bad breath (halitosis).
Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Discomfort while wearing dentures.
Difficulty speaking and swallowing.
A sore or dry throat.
Changes in taste perception.

Does anxiety cause dry mouth?

According to the Anxiety Centre, when you experience anxiety, your body activates the stress response (commonly known as "fight or flight") (3). This response releases stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which cause various physiological changes, such as:

Increased heart rate.
Rapid breathing.
Decreased saliva production.

As a result, many people who suffer from anxiety report a persistent dry mouth, especially during heightened stress.

How do I know if my dry mouth is from anxiety?

If you notice that your dry mouth occurs mainly during stressful situations – such as before a public speaking event or during moments of heightened worry – it’s likely linked to anxiety. Additionally, hyperventilation (rapid breathing through the mouth) is common in anxious individuals, which can further contribute to dryness.

However, other factors can cause dry mouth, including:

Medications such as diuretics, antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants.
Dehydration.
Autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome.
Diabetes.

If your dry mouth persists despite efforts to manage anxiety, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional.

Think your dry mouth is caused by something other than anxiety? Learn more about dry mouth causes, symptoms, and remedies in our blog, Dry Mouth.

How to Stop Dry Mouth from Anxiety

If you suspect that anxiety is the culprit behind your dry mouth, implementing the following strategies may help:

1. Practice managing your anxiety.

Practice relaxation techniques. Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help reduce stress levels.
Exercise regularly. Physical activity releases endorphins that promote relaxation.
Follow the 3-3-3 Rule for Anxiety. Name three things you see, hear, and feel to help ground yourself in the present moment.
Consider professional help. Therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help address anxiety-related symptoms.

2. Stay as hydrated as you can! Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist. You can even suck on ice cubes to increase moisture in your mouth.

3. Chew sugar-free gum. Opt for gum sweetened with xylitol, which promotes saliva production.

4. Avoid drying substances.

Reduce intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, as they contribute to dehydration.
Avoid over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants unless absolutely necessary.

5. Work on managing your breathing habits. Be mindful of breathing through your nose rather than your mouth. You can also try using a humidifier in your home, especially if you breathe through your mouth at night.

6. Try saliva substitutes. Use saliva-stimulating products, such as oral rinses or mouth sprays, available at pharmacies (4). Studies have also shown that natural toothpaste with xylitol helps promote the production of saliva (5).

Looking for toothpaste with a beneficial ingredient like xylitol? Check out Cleure’s natural toothpaste whether you’re battling dry mouth, or just looking for a natural way to brush your teeth!

7. Protect your lips. Apply lip balm regularly to prevent cracked lips due to dryness.

Battling with dry or chapped lips? Learn how to manage your chapped lips during the winter months.

How long can an anxiety flare-up last?

The duration of an anxiety episode varies:

Acute anxiety attacks can last a few minutes to several hours.
Chronic anxiety can persist for days or weeks if left unmanaged.

By incorporating stress-reducing techniques and staying hydrated, you can help alleviate anxiety-induced dry mouth.

When to Seek Professional Help

If dry mouth becomes persistent or severely impacts daily life, consider consulting:

A dentist to assess oral health concerns.
A therapist to help manage anxiety-related symptoms.
A primary care physician to rule out underlying medical conditions.

Understanding the link between anxiety and dry mouth is essential for effective management. By addressing anxiety and implementing simple lifestyle changes like learning the benefits of ingredients like xylitol, you can improve saliva production and maintain better oral health. If symptoms persist, seeking professional guidance can help ensure comprehensive care.

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