That is why it is essential for patients to take the necessary measures to combat xerostomia symptoms, to therefore improve their quality of life and avoid potential complications therefrom. The treatment of xerostomia is symptomatic and is aimed at soothing and relieving dry mouth symptoms. Pharmacists can provide cancer patients suffering from xerostomia with general recommendations to help relieve their symptoms:

• Stop smoking.
  
• Drink water often throughout the day.
  
• Avoid long periods between meals.
  
• Moisten lips, and if necessary, use lip balms.
  
• Cut down on dry, spicy, sticky and sugary foods, and eat more cured cheeses, fruits and vegetables.
  
• Avoid products with caffeine or alcohol.
  
• Keep strict oral hygiene.
  
• Get regular dental check-ups.  

THE XEROS DENTAID® RANGE: THE MOST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION FOR DRY MOUTH 

Oral hygiene is essential in cases of dry mouth, so pharmacists should recommend that patients reinforce oral hygiene by using a toothbrush with soft filaments (such as those in the VITIS® range) which do not damage the tissues; toothpaste and mouthwashes without irritants and which contain ingredients aimed at moisturising the oral cavity and remineralising dental enamel, and moisturising gels that help keep the mucosa lubricated.

The Xeros dentaid® product range offers specific formulations to solve dry mouth problems with products that moisturise the oral cavity and stimulate the natural production of saliva, helping to improve the quality of life of people with xerostomia.

The MOISTURISING range includes: 

• Toothpaste and mouthwash for daily oral hygiene with betaine, allantoin, xylitol and fluoride. Xylitol offers a bacteriostatic and moisturising effect, while enhancing the anti-caries and remineralising effects of sodium fluoride. Betaine is a moisturiser and allantoin prevents fissures of the tongue, lips and palate thanks to its anti-irritant, regenerating and healing properties, thereby improving the symptomatology of patients with xerostomia.
  
• Long lasting moisturising gel for topical application containing betaine, aloe vera, xylitol and sodium fluoride, used when greater moisturisation of the oral tissues is needed.
  

The STIMULATING range offers several product forms which are easy to apply throughout the day:

• Chewing gum.
  
• Tablets.
  
• Spray.
  

All of these contain xylitol, fluoride and malic acid. Malic acid stimulates salivary secretion without resulting erosive to the dental enamel.