Dry mouth affects a significant proportion of the population, with an increased prevalence with age. Etiologies include medication use, autoimmune diseases, head and neck radiation, chemotherapy, certain viral infections and a number of other causes. In addition, etiologies of transient dry mouth include dehydration, mouth breathing, snoring, tobacco and alcohol. Given the functions of saliva, the oral complications of dry mouth are significant, including an increased risk of dental caries, dental erosion, oral infections and irritations. Patients also experience dif culties eating, drinking, swallowing and talking. The management and treatment of the oral complications of dry mouth is essential to help restore and maintain oral health and quality of life.