This document discusses expert dental care for patients taking Venlafaxine who experience xerostomia (dry mouth). It begins by introducing xerostomia as a common side effect of Venlafaxine, which is used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety. It then provides details on Venlafaxine as a treatment and defines xerostomia. Finally, it outlines several ways to manage xerostomia, such as staying hydrated, using saliva substitutes, and seeking dental care to prevent complications and protect oral health.

1. Managing Xerostomia: Expert Dental
Care for Venlafaxine Patients
Channel Islands Family Dental Office

2. Introduction:
Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, can be an uncomfortable side
effect of taking Venlafaxine, a medication used for various mental health
conditions. At Newbury Park Dentistry, we specialize in providing expert
dental care to help patients effectively manage xerostomia and protect their
oral health. Our experienced team understands the impact of dry mouth and
offers personalized solutions to alleviate discomfort and prevent dental
complications.

3. VENLAFAXINE AS A TREATMENT
Venlafaxine is indicated in the treatment of
depression and sometimes to treat anxiety
disorders and panic attacks, among other
conditions. It is an antidepressant that acts on
the receptors of chemical agents such as
serotonin and norepinephrine, increasing their
amounts in the brain, which helps maintain
balance. The medication comes in modified-
release capsules for oral administration usually
given two or three doses per day with food,
standard-release capsules, and modified-release
capsules to be taken once daily in the morning
or evening with food. Remember not to crush,
chew, or try to separate the capsule or split the
tablet. Sudden discontinuation is not
recommended. The most common side effects
are tiredness, malaise, weakness, dry mouth, and
headaches.

4. WHAT IS XEROSTOMIA?
Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is
a condition characterized by insufficient saliva
production in the mouth. Saliva plays a vital
role in maintaining oral health by lubricating
the mouth, aiding in digestion, neutralizing
acids, and preventing tooth decay. When the
mouth lacks proper saliva flow, it can lead to
discomfort, difficulty speaking and swallowing,
bad breath, and an increased risk of dental
problems such as tooth decay and gum
disease. Xerostomia can be caused by various
factors, including certain medications, medical
conditions, dehydration, nerve damage, and
lifestyle habits. Managing xerostomia involves
addressing the underlying causes, maintaining
proper oral hygiene, staying hydrated, using
saliva substitutes, and seeking professional
dental care to prevent complications and
improve overall oral health.

5. HOW CAN I TREAT XEROSTOMIA?
There are different treatment alternatives for the management of xerostomia as
suggested below.
Drink water regularly or suck on ice chips (relieves dryness, makes swallowing easier,
hydrates tissues and cleanses the mouth).
Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy.
Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages as they can make your mouth dry.
The use of mouthwashes, gels, sprays and artificial saliva can help reduce discomfort
and improve function temporarily (if they do not contain alcohol, detergent, or
antimicrobial agents).
Breathe through your nose, not your mouth.

6. HOW CAN I TREAT XEROSTOMIA?
Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly. Having a dry
mouth can increase the risk of cavities.
Vitamin C tablets have also been recommended to stimulate salivary flow, as they act
as a reducing agent, breaking disulfide bonds between cysteine ​​residues in proteins,
leading to a decrease in saliva viscosity.
Talk to your doctor or dentist about over-the-counter or prescription medications to
treat dry mouth.
Talk to your treating doctor to adjust the dose or change the treatment if a dry mouth is
the product of a side effect.