Nanny ... I used a water pik for getting rid of the thick saliva. Not only did the pik help keep my oral cavity clean but I also found using it helped sooth my sore, aching mouth. The only other thing that seemed to help me with the thick saliva was Biotene Mouthwash. It did a good job of breaking up the gunk and keeping it at bay if only for a short while. The thick saliva will thin out in time, but I have to agree, getting through this part of treatment and recovery is by far the most annoying aspect of it all. Hang tight, it does get better! SIncerely, Donna