Why Your Mouth May React to Cigars: A Guide to Saliva Production

Have you ever noticed that smoking certain cigars can cause your mouth to feel dry or, conversely, produce an excessive amount of saliva? This is a common experience for many cigar enthusiasts. Let's delve into the reasons behind these sensations.

Dry Mouth

• Nicotine: Nicotine, the primary psychoactive compound in tobacco, can reduce saliva production. This is because it stimulates the release of adrenaline, which can lead to a decrease in salivary flow.

• Tobacco Alkaloids: In addition to nicotine, other tobacco alkaloids can contribute to dry mouth. These compounds can irritate the oral mucosa, leading to reduced saliva production.

• Heat: The heat generated by smoking a cigar can also cause dryness in the mouth. This is especially true for cigars that are smoked at a high temperature.

Increased Saliva Production

• Flavor Compounds: Certain flavor compounds found in cigars can stimulate the salivary glands. For example, cigars with strong flavors of pepper, spice, or citrus may cause increased salivation.

• Mouth Irritation: If a cigar is too harsh or contains irritating substances, it can cause the mouth to produce more saliva as a protective mechanism.

• Individual Variation: The way your body responds to cigars can vary significantly from person to person. Some people may naturally produce more saliva than others.

Tips for Managing Saliva Production:

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help counteract dry mouth and maintain healthy oral hydration.

• Choose the Right Cigar: If you find that certain cigars are causing excessive dryness or salivation, try experimenting with different brands or blends.

• Avoid Harsh Cigars: Opt for cigars with milder flavors and avoid those that are too strong or irritating.

• Use a Humidifier: If dry mouth is a persistent issue, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

Understanding the factors that influence saliva production when smoking cigars, you can better manage your comfort and enjoy your smoking experience.