Introduction
Having too much saliva in your mouth can be quite uncomfortable. It’s often caused by anxiety, pregnancy, or medical conditions like GERD. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce saliva production and get relief. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best strategies for reducing saliva production and getting back to feeling comfortable.
Avoid Eating Spicy or Sour Foods
Spicy or sour foods can cause your salivary glands to produce more saliva than normal. To avoid this effect, try to limit your intake of these types of foods. Instead, opt for milder flavors or foods that aren’t as acidic. This can help reduce saliva production and keep your mouth feeling more comfortable.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it can also help reduce saliva production. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will keep your mouth from becoming dry, which can lead to increased saliva production. Aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day to stay properly hydrated.
Chew Sugarless Gum or Suck on Hard Candy
Chewing gum or sucking on hard candy can stimulate saliva production, which can help reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth. Choose sugar-free varieties of gum or candy to avoid adding extra sugar to your diet. Xylitol-sweetened gum is especially beneficial because it helps reduce bacteria in the mouth and can prevent cavities.
Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Excessive saliva production can be caused by stress or anxiety. Practicing deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels and decrease saliva production. Try taking long, slow breaths in and out, or focus on counting your breaths. Doing this for just a few minutes each day can make a big difference.
Use an Oral Rinse with Anticholinergic Medication
Anticholinergic medication can help reduce saliva production by blocking the action of certain chemicals in the body. An oral rinse containing this type of medication can be used to reduce saliva production. Be sure to follow the directions on the package and consult with your doctor before using any type of medication.
Conclusion
Too much saliva can be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. By following the tips outlined above, you can reduce saliva production and get back to feeling comfortable. Avoiding spicy or sour foods, drinking plenty of water, chewing sugarless gum or sucking on hard candy, practicing deep breathing exercises, and using an oral rinse with anticholinergic medication can all help reduce saliva production. Take action today and start feeling better!
