Understanding Dry Mouth: 10 Symptoms to Look Out For

5. Bad Breath

One of the most popular symptoms of dry mouth is bad breath. Saliva is not just used to keep your mouth moist; it is also necessary to clear it of bacteria, plaque, and debris that can cause bad breath. When you chew food, tiny pieces lodge in between teeth, as well as on the cheeks and tongue. If your mouth is not producing enough saliva, it cannot clear away these particles. As they begin to break down, they produce the odors that cause bad breath. To temporarily fix this, you can use breath fresheners like Listerine strips or sugar-free mints, which will produce saliva and mask bad breath.