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Exploring xerostomia and its covariates in depressed individuals: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common consequence of depression and use of antidepressants. However, limited research has explored the association between this condition and individuals’ sociodemographic characteristics, diet, oral hygiene, and other lifestyle factors. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of xerostomia among individuals with depression. A specific objective was to investigate the relationship between xerostomia and various subjects’ characteristics. The cross-sectional study included a sample ( N = 210) of participants diagnosed with depression who were recruited via an online invitation distributed in a closed Facebook support group. Xerostomia symptoms were assessed using both a self-developed screening section and the validated Summated Xerostomia Inventory (SXI). Dietary habits were assessed using the Healthy Diet Index (HDI), while oral health-related behaviours and attitudes were evaluated using the Hiroshima University–Dental Behavioural Inventory (HU-DBI). Univariate and multivariate Generalized Linear Models were used to analyse the associations between xerostomia and its potential predictors. Of the 210 study participants, the adjusted prevalence of frequent xerostomia was 45.5% (95% CI: 36.4%; 54.7%). Significantly higher rates of frequent xerostomia were observed among males (52.5%), subjects older than 45 (57.3%), and those with low (50.0%) or medium (48.2%) family socio-economic status, compared to females (37.8%), subjects aged 25–45 (36.0%), and those with high socio-economic status (37.2%), respectively. The prevalence of frequent xerostomia was higher (63.4%) among individuals who used antidepressants for 1–4 years compared to those who take antidepressants less than 1 year (36.7%, p = 0.039) or more than 4 year (39.1%, p = 0.006). SXI scores, which reflect the severity of xerostomia, ranged from 5 to 15, with an adjusted mean of 9.37 (95% CI: 8.99; 9.76). Both the frequency and severity of xerostomia were significantly associated with poor oral hygiene. A less healthy diet and smoking were also identified as a covariate contributing to the occurrence of xerostomia. The study findings indicate that the use of antidepressants may exacerbate xerostomia, potentially compromising oral health. This relationship is influenced by several confounding factors, including smoking, poor oral hygiene, age, and others. In clinical settings, both psychiatrists and dentists should adopt a more integrated approach to managing xerostomia, aiming to improve treatment outcomes for patients undergoing antidepressant therapy by increasing awareness of this often-overlooked issue. Not applicable.

Source: BMC Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1186/s12888-026-08564-2