A case-based update on the recognition, diagnosis and an evidence-based, systematic approach to the treatment of xerostomia. With an aging population retaining their dentition and on multiple medications to treat chronic diseases, it is no surprise that this a growing population the prudent oral healthcare practitioner needs the latest knowledge to treat.

• Explain why xerostomia is not simply a problem of “dry mouth,” and describe the underlying pathophysiology
• Identify commonly used medications associated with causing xerostomia
• Discuss current treatment strategies to include an individualized, yet multimodal and evidence-based approach to success
• Describe a systematic approach to xerostomia management that includes reviewing systemic conditions and medication use and emphasizes patient education, lifestyle modifications, and palliative and preventive measures
• Recognize some of the most common disease-induced causes of xerostomia

The speaker declares that neither she nor any member of her family has a financial arrangement or affiliation with any corporate offering financial support of grant monies for this CE program. Although commercially available products may be discussed, no financial arrangements exist between those companies and the speaker.