A dry mouth is something that we’ve all experienced. Therefore, to most of us, it may seem like a pretty small deal. However, persistent dry mouth, known as Xerostomia, can cause a variety of problems for your dental care, including an increase in tooth decay and a rise in the occurrence of bad breath (halitosis). The presence of a chronically dry mouth indicates the absence of a very important fluid: saliva. Saliva has a profoundly positive effect on the quality of your teeth, and we need a healthy dose of it in our mouths regularly.
Risk Factors for Dry Mouth
– Medications
– Sjögren’s syndrome (dry eyes)
– Diabetes
– Depression
– HIV/AIDS
– Salivary Gland Infection
– Dehydration
Your Treatment Plan
Dry mouth can be treated in a variety of ways:
- Stay hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. A good rule of thumb is to drink a glass of water every two hours, starting at 6 am and ending at 8 pm (this can be adjusted based on your schedule).
- Avoid excessive caffeine, as it can dry out the mouth
- Limit sugary and carbonated beverages
- Chew sugarless gum to encourage saliva flow
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
Following these five tips should help to ensure that you won’t suffer from persistent dry mouth and experience greater dental decay. However, if you’re still having a problem after trying these tips, please make an appointment immediately so that we can provide you with a thorough dental examination.
If you have any questions about your dental care or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.