By R. Sanderson

Dry mouth and various oral and dental complications are problematic for many people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), or Fibromyalgia (FM). Persistent dryness of the mouth could indicate an autoimmune illness like Sjögren's, linked to poorly functioning or damaged salivary glands, or be the result of side effects associated with many medications. Either way, it is a problem that warrants prompt medical or dental attention.

Dental caries, which refers to localized disease that causes decay and cavities in teeth, and oral problems have a tendency to progress much more rapidly when there is poor salivation and ongoing dryness. The goal of this article is to provide information about the serious and often devastating consequences of persistent dry mouth and treatments that can help to protect teeth and restore oral health.

Ed. Note: This article features information about oral complications, research highlights, and guidelines for people living with Sjögren's Syndrome and chronic dry mouth. Most of the information used in this article is based on a lecture given by Dr. Athena Papas for the Greater Boston Sjögren's Syndrome Support Group held on December 5, 2013 at Tufts Medical Center, Sackler Building, in Boston, MA. Additional data is included in order to provide some background information and more resources for our readers.

This material was researched and prepared by a layperson with ME/CFS and Sjögren's. Every effort has been made to accurately convey the information delivered by Dr. Papas and represent the research of other scientists brought up in this material. As always, consult with your health care provider for advice and further evaluation of new or worsening symptoms. Please see our Disclaimer. 

The first part of the article discusses issues around diagnosing Sjogren's Syndrome. If you suffer from dry mouth and are more interested in issues/treatments for this general condition, you may want to skip to the part of the article beginning with "How to minimize oral complications and maximize oral health and comfort."