What can prolonged xerostomia result in apart from infection?

Prolonged xerostomia, or dry mouth, can lead to various oral complications, and bad breath is one of the significant outcomes. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral hygiene by helping to wash away food particles and bacteria. When saliva production is reduced, there is an increased likelihood of bacterial overgrowth in the mouth, leading to foul-smelling breath, often referred to as halitosis. This condition is particularly prevalent in individuals with dry mouth, as the lack of moisture not only causes a dry sensation but also creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.

While other options could relate to the consequences of xerostomia, bad breath is especially notable because it's a direct result of decreased saliva production affecting oral bacteria. Dry mouth can indeed lead to swallowing difficulties through difficulty in forming a cohesive food bolus and may alter taste sensations due to inadequate saliva, which is necessary for taste perception. However, bad breath specifically stands out as a common and recognizable consequence of this condition, thus making it a relevant choice in this context.