How Dry Mouth Affects Oral Health and What You Can Do
When you have dry mouth our Canton, MI, dentists know it isn’t just uncomfortable—it can significantly impact your oral health, leading to issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Yes, saliva plays a huge role in that it helps your mouth properly stay lubricated, defend against disease-causing organisms, and is a core component in the process of breaking down food and neutralizing harmful acids.
Here’s what you need to know about on your dental well-being and practical advice for managing symptoms.
What Dry Mouth Is & Common Causes
, or xerostomia, describes a condition in which an individual’s salivary glands do not produce enough natural saliva to keep their mouth wet. Those who suffer from dry mouth know it to be frustrating especially when a cause is not immediately obvious.
Though it varies, dry mouth can be tied to:
- Medications being taken
- Aging
- Cancer therapy
- Dehydration
- Sleeping with mouth open
- Nerve damage
- Underlying health conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or more
- Tobacco and alcohol use
A proper oral examination and a review of your full health history can help our dentists determine what is responsible for your dry mouth. We also recommend coming into our Canton, MI, dental office to receive a teeth cleaning every 6 months to ensure your oral health is taken care of and your condition is not leading to additional issues.
Signs You May Have Dry Mouth
There are several notable symptoms associated with dry mouth. These symptoms should not be ignored as can increase your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth infections.
Less saliva may result in:
- Dry or sticky feeling in your mouth
- Thick or stringy saliva
- Constant thirst
- Noticeably bad breath
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing
- Dry or sore throat (hoarseness)
- Red, raw, or dry tongue
Sometimes symptoms can resolve themselves on their own through advised medication adjustments, increased hydration, or abstinence from tobacco or alcohol. Making teeth brushing a priority at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste can also help alleviate dry mouth.
Treatment & Management of Dry Mouth
No matter what caused the onset of your dry mouth, relief is just an appointment away. You do not have to figure out the reason behind your condition on your own. After all, the culprit could be any number of things. Prevent further oral complications by seeing our dentists as soon as you’re able.
Depending on your medical history, recommended treatment options can include prescription or over-the-counter mouth rinses, artificial saliva or moisturizers, and fluoride trays. Chewing sugar-free gum on your own can also help stimulate natural saliva production.
Be sure to let our dentists know if a certain treatment is not working. We will do our best to review your condition further and suggest alternative options. If a medication you’re taking is causing your dry mouth, please discuss this side effect with your general doctor.
Solve Your Dry Mouth Mystery
By recognizing symptoms early and adopting effective management strategies along with our dentists in Canton, MI, such as staying hydrated and practicing good oral hygiene, you can mitigate the impacts of dry mouth. Call Hometown Dental today at (734) 667-4941 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.