Summer heat can cause anyone’s mouth to get parched, but “cotton mouth” can be caused by much more than sun and dust.

Dry mouth resulting from suppressed salivary flow is called xerostomia and can lead to difficulty eating, swallowing and speaking, as well as mouth sores, burning tongue syndrome, diminished or altered taste, interrupted sleep and increased susceptibility to oral infections and ulcerations.

Xerostomia, which makes wearing dentures a chore, can also be responsible for tooth decay, gingivitis and oral infections, as well as bad breath. Most dry mouth is caused by medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, including antihistamines, antidepressants, painkillers, high blood pressure medicines and sedatives.

Certain cancer treatments, including chemo-therapy and radiation therapy, can alter the composition and flow of saliva and may sometimes damage salivary glands.

Reduced saliva flow may also result from medical situations, including the immune system disorder Sjogren’s Syndrome, HIV/-AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, lupus, kidney diseases, stroke, nutritional deficiencies, stress, anxiety and depression. Aging may contribute to xerostomia, too.

Managing the symptoms of xerostomia may include:

Changing your diet, including reducing consumption of dry, salty foods such as crackers or toast

Avoiding acidic drinks such as tomato, orange and grapefruit juices

Avoiding foods with high sugar content

Avoiding alcohol and caffeine

Avoiding smoking

Drinking plenty of water

Using over-the-counter moisture replacement therapies, including saliva substitutes, nonalcohol-containing mouthwashes, sprays and gels

Chewing sugarless gum

Brushing and flossing at least twice daily

Consulting with your physician about changing the brand or dose of your medications.

Other strategies include regular use of lip moisturizers, along with fluoride rinses and gels before bed. Resin sealants placed in the grooves of teeth that don’t have prior decay or fillings may prevent cavities. Acupuncture may also be useful for stimulating salivary flow.