Thick spit was a big problem for me too. It did get better, but it felt like it never would. I gargled with warm salt water when it didn't hurt.
I had more trouble with my tongue and still do sometimes. My chemo/radiation was over in Nov.2001. Getting my strength back and feeling good enough to work again are the two uppermost things on my mind. Still have trouble with the lack of saliva, but that is a small price to pay. Have a big turkey gobbler neck (haha), I laugh about it now. My hair is getting better and life is getting brighter. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.