Caring for patients with ‘dry mouth’

Dry mouth is defined as the subjective sensation of oral dryness, affecting around 21–27% of people. The condition can range from an inconvenience and discomfort to a severe burden, reducing quality of life and increasing the likelihood of a number of serious oral conditions.

Dental nurses can be very valuable members of the team when it comes to the recognition and treatment of dry mouth. It is a hugely under-treated condition, with evidence that dental professionals do not always have the confidence to discuss it with their patients (Thompson, 2011). With the likely changes to the NHS Contract, suggesting a greater skill mix and the measuring of ‘quality outcomes’, it is even more important that every member of the dental team is prepared to help this group of high-risk patients.