| Dry Mouth / Thick Saliva | | | Radiation therapy and some types of chemotherapy can affect the salivary gland and cause dry mouth and a decrease of saliva. The existing saliva may become very thick, sticky and stringy. Saliva is important in not only moisturizing the mouth, but also in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. This is usually a temporary problem, although in some cases it is permanent. There is no single way to treat dry mouth; however, there are guidelines you can follow: 
- Choose smooth, soft, creamy foods like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, puddings and custards.
- Take frequent sips of water and drinks without sugar
- Pause often while speaking to sip liquid.
- Rinse your mouth with a baking soda and salt solution before and after meals.
- Use nectars, low acid fruit juices, or fresh or canned fruit.
- Suck on fruit juice popsicles, ice chips or other cold foods.
- Try dipping or soaking food in whatever liquid you are drinking.
- Use viscous Lidocaine or other analgesic before meals.
- Commercial mothwashes that contain alcohol
- Salty, spicy or acidic foods that irritate your mouth.
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