Ask an Expert: I have excess milky white saliva

Dental and Oral Health (Adults)

I have excess milky white saliva - like foam.
08/13/2007

Question:

Why do I have milky white saliva?

Answer:

There are actually a few different potential causes for this. If you have a chronic dry mouth (called xerostomia), your saliva would be stringy and very white. Some of the causes of this include certain medications, head and neck radiation treatment for cancer and autoimmune disorders. Several medications for high blood pressure, depression and others can cause this. If you are taking these medications, speak with your doctor before changing anything with your dosing. I am sure you would know if you had radiation therapy, so I won't discuss it. Autoimmune disorders, such as Sjogren's Syndrome, can cause dry mouth as well.
Stimulation of the salivary glands should thin the saliva out. SUGAR FREE candy and gum can help. If they do not help, contact your physician about other options.

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Response by:

Daniel Nathan Reed, DDS
Clinical Associate Professor of Primary Care Dentistry
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University