Dictionary

artificial saliva solution: An over-the-counter solution that mimics saliva to treat dry mouth.

benign: Describes a condition that does not threaten life or well-being.

candida albicans: A variety of fungus found in the digestive and female urogential tract that can infect the oral cavity.

cevimeline: A medication that stimulates salivary and sweat glands.

cytomegalovirus: A herpes virus often seen as an opportunistic disease in AIDS patients. Cytomegalovirus can infect the salivary glands, causing pneumonia, gland swelling, sore throat, fatigue and fever.

E. Coli: A bacterium (Escherichia coli) that can be benign or life-threatening. E. Coli can cause dry mouth if it infects a salivary gland.