Tips if you have a dry mouth and pancreatic cancer

Tell your doctor or nurse if you have a dry mouth. They can check there are no problems with your mouth. They can also give you medicines to help with a dry mouth, such as a mouthwash, spray, gels or tablets.

9 tips to help if you have a dry mouth

1. Sip drinks frequently.
2. Suck ice cubes or lollies. Some nutritional supplements come as a fruit juice, which can be frozen into ice cubes or ice lollies.
3. Suck sweets or mints, or chew sugar-free chewing gum to increase saliva.
4. Have food with sauces, gravy, custard or cream.
5. Keep your mouth clean. Brushing your teeth before and after meals might help.
6. Use mouthwash regularly. If your mouth is sore, ask your dietitian which one to use.
7. Use lip balm to soothe dry lips.
8. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking.
9. Ask your doctor, nurse or dietitian about treatments for a dry mouth.

Updated March 2025

Review date March 2028