What makes saliva sticky

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Learn more about our commitment to oral health education. Top Articles. What Cause Sticky Saliva? Stuffy Nose A stuffy nose due to allergies or a cold can cause thick saliva. After going to bed with a stuffy nose, you may wake up the next day with a dry, sticky mouth that feels covered in mucus. Nasal congestion often forces you to breathe with your mouth open, which can dry your mouth and make your saliva thicker and stickier than usual. Cancer Therapy People undergoing radiation therapy to the head or neck may develop dry mouth and thicker saliva.

As the American Cancer Society ACS notes, this type of treatment can irritate the saliva glands, causing them to produce less saliva or produce thicker, stickier saliva. Dehydration Sticky, thick saliva can also be a sign of dehydration. When you're dehydrated, your body isn't taking in enough fluids to replace those lost.

Salivary Duct Obstructions. Your salivary ducts are the tiny channels that pump saliva throughout your mouth. If they become blocked, such as by a salivary stone, your saliva flow can decrease, possibly causing dry mouth and thicker-feeling saliva, as the State Government of Victoria notes.

Is Sticky or Thick Saliva a Problem? Having sticky saliva can be uncomfortable. Your mouth may feel full of mucus or you may find it difficult to swallow. Along with discomfort, thicker saliva can contribute to other problems in your mouth.

But as the State Government of Victoria notes, a dry mouth full of thick saliva can put you at a higher risk of tooth decay and other oral diseases. In combination with speaking to a medical professional, there are a few things you can try at home to thin your saliva:. Grains: To integrate whole grains, add cooked cereals like cream of wheat and cream of rice to your diet.

You also can try mashed potatoes. Mix all ingredients in a blender: 8 oz. Jump to topic. What you should know Get a printable version of this guide. What you can do: Improving your eating behavior General tips Eat small and frequent meals.