Thanks, David. I didn't even know about suction machines till I visited these forums. I will cheer the end of thick saliva because, as noted, it seems tied to sleep deprivation. I have sleep aids available, including a prescription narcotic, but refuse them. For me, the issue is drooling and especially gagging -- the quick buildup of thick saliva, leading to awakening quickly, choking on my own gummy spit. As thick saliva diminishes, I hope to begin sleeping 1, 2, 3 or more hours at a time -- a godsend. I feel that natural sleep is the key to accelerate my healing.

Therefore I believe that when mouth soreness decreases, enabling me to eat and drink, and thick saliva decreases, enabling me to sleep, I'll really be on the way.

You mention the long, dry mouth stage to follow. I guess I'll have to cross that bridge when I come to it.

I do have one question for you: what's the appropriate use of "saliva substitute" products? One was recommended to me, but I'm not sure when and how it's supposed to be used. Do you recall any feedback on product effectiveness from forum members?