['To study the prevalence of xerostomia in an English population, attending general dental practice and relate it to age, medication and gender.', 'Cross-sectional.', 'Five General Dental Practices in Merseyside, North of England.', '1,103 adult patients attending for routine dental care.', 'Questionnaire administered by dentists.', 'Age, gender, systemic medication, reported oral dryness.', '1,103 patients (654 females) were recruited, of whom 427 (39%) were aged 60 years or older. 26% of patients reported taking medication. The overall prevalence of xerostomia was 12.7% (males--10.3%, females 14.4%). Age, medication and female gender were found to be significant risk factors for xerostomia, using logistic regression analysis.'] Are age and medication significant risk factors for xerostomia in an English population , attending general dental practice?