Dry or Sore Mouth



General Tips
Moist, Soft Foods
Cold Foods & Drinks
Foods to Avoid

General Tips

  • Take a swallow of beverage such as milk, water, or unsweetened drink with each bite of food
  • Try a blender to puree favorite foods
  • Add milk-based sauces, gravy, broth and syrup to foods
  • Dunk dry foods (like crackers and cookies) into soups and drinks
  • Try licking or sucking on ice chips
  • Drink plenty of fluids in between meals
  • Use a straw for beverages
  • Chew sugarless gum
  • Be sure to brush teeth regularly

  • Try Moist, Soft Foods

    Examples include:
    • Mashed potatoes
    • Hot cereal
    • Mashed or pureed vegetables
    • Scrambled eggs
    • Creamed dishes 
    • Custard
  • Stews and soups
  • Pudding
  • Casseroles
  • Fruit yogurt
  • Plain or fruited gelatin
  • Canned or soft fruits

  • Try Cold Foods and Beverages

    Examples include:
    • Ice cream
    • Cold milk
    • Sherbet    
    • Shakes
    • Fruit ices
  • Chilled melon
  • Frozen yogurt
  • Chilled grapes
  • Popsicles 
  • Juice bars

  • Foods to Avoid

    • Dry (unless moistened)
    • Spicy
    • Salty, such as potato chips  
    • Hard or rough texture
    • Highly acidic, if sore mouth (citrus such as orange, grapefruit or tangerine and tomatoes)

    NOTE:  Hard candy and lollipops are often recommended for sore mouth. These foods can cause tooth decay. Sugar-free candies may cause diarrhea if eaten in large amounts.

    THIS TOOL DOES NOT GIVE MEDICAL ADVICE.
    It is for informational use only. It does not take the place of getting advice from a doctor for diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore your doctor's advice or wait to get medical help because of something you have read on this site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 right away.  Read disclaimer information.