My husband had radiation and Erbitux. He is now over 3 months post treatment and rarely wakes up at night with dry mouth. And, the ropey saliva is long gone.

He used to take extra pain medication in the evening as the dry mouth was very painful to him.

Also, he slept significantly better with a humidifier running close to his side of the bed.

And, like you, he always had water on the bedside table.

There are a number of OTC dry mouth sprays and gels available. My husband preferred water, but I think the products have helped many here.

Best of luck,