Protocol for the clinical management of dry mouth.

Dry mouth is a very common condition in dental practice, and the causes underlying this alteration in salivary secretion are diverse. The problem is particularly common in polymedicated elderly people. Treatment should aim to eliminate the background cause; however, when this is not possible, management should focus on the stimulation of salivation or the provision of a saliva substitute. The present study provides a systematic account of the management protocol for patients with dry mouth.