Dry Mouth Causes and Treatments
Xerostomia, or “dry mouth”, is a common condition that increases the risk of tooth decay and infections, while also causing discomfort and problems while speaking, eating, and swallowing. Here at Cunning Dental Group, we want to inform our patients about the causes of dry mouth, as well as effective treatments for the condition because we recognize how important it is to maintain good oral hygiene.
Causes of Dry Mouth
Medications:
A side effect of some prescription and over-the-counter medications may be dry mouth. Medication examples include antidepressants, decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers. If you are taking medication and experiencing dry mouth, speak with your doctor about possible alternative medical treatments.
Medical conditions:
Dry mouth can be a symptom of several illnesses, including Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. Additionally, radiation therapy and chemotherapy can also cause dry mouth. If you have a medical condition that is causing dry mouth, your doctor may be able to recommend treatments to relieve your symptoms.
Aging:
People may produce less saliva as they age, which can lead to dry mouth. If you are experiencing dry mouth due to aging, there are remedies that can help relieve your symptoms.
Dehydration:
If a person does not drink enough fluids, they can become dehydrated, which can cause dry mouth. Staying hydrated is essential for good oral health and can help relieve the symptoms of dry mouth.
Lifestyle factors:
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain dietary choices can contribute to dry mouth. If you are experiencing dry mouth due to lifestyle choices, it is important to make changes to improve your oral health.
Remedies for Dry Mouth
Drink more water:
Staying hydrated can help increase saliva production and relieve symptoms of dry mouth. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your mouth moist.
Chew sugar-free gum:
Chewing gum can stimulate saliva production and relieve dry mouth symptoms. Look for a sugar-free gum that contains xylitol, which can also help prevent tooth decay.
Avoid drying substances:
Avoiding substances that can dry out the mouth, such as alcohol and tobacco, can help relieve dry mouth. To improve your overall oral health, stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
Use a humidifier:
Running a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air, which can help relieve dry mouth.
Use saliva substitutes:
Over-the-counter saliva substitutes, such as moisturizing sprays and gels, can help relieve dry mouth. Speak with your dentist about the best products for your needs.
Consult a dentist:
If you have a persistently dry mouth, it is important to consult a dentist. Your dentist may be able to recommend treatments to help relieve your symptoms.
At Cunning Dental Group, we believe in providing comprehensive dental care to our patients. If you are experiencing dry mouth, our team of dental professionals can work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs. You can reduce discomfort, improve your oral health, and maintain a higher quality of life by controlling your dry mouth condition.
In conclusion, dry mouth is a common condition that can be brought on by several things, including prescription drugs, health issues, aging, dehydration, and lifestyle decisions. Effective treatments for dry mouth include drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum, avoiding substances that dry out the mouth, using a humidifier, using saliva substitutes, and visiting a dentist. With the help of Cunning Dental Group, you can get the treatment and assistance you require to effectively deal with your dry mouth. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, call us today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule a consultation and get the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve!