Dry Mouth... why is it such a big deal?

Dry mouth, also called Xerostomia, is not a disease but is a symptom of a medical condition like Sjogren's Syndrome, or a side effect of certain medications. It is also caused by damage to the salivary glands from radiation or chemotherapy.

Saliva is the mouth's main defense against tooth decay. Saliva helps to wash away food or other debris away that without saliva would otherwise stick. Without your salivary glands working properly, those with dry mouth have an increase in plaque and therefore an increase in tooth decay. 

Those with Xerostomia may not notice they have a dry mouth until their salivary flow is reduced by 50%. If you suffer from dry mouth you may have one or more of these symptoms:

• Bad Breath
• Blisters or Mouth Ulcers
• Excessive Thirst
• Needing More Water at Night
• A Sticky or Sore Mouth
• Cracking at the Corners of the Mouth
• A Pebbled Look to the Tongue
• Difficulty Eating Spicy Food

An increase in age is also a direct correlation with dry mouth. Half of all Americans over the age of 60 are taking 3 or more prescription medications on a regular basis. What medications cause dry mouth? Over 1800 medications can make your mouth feel dry including drugs used to treat:

• Depression
• Anxiety 
• Allergies 
• Obesity 
• Acne 
• Epilepsy 
• Hypertension 
• Diarrhea 
• Psychotic Disorders 
• Asthma  

If you feel that you may have a dry mouth talk to your Dentist or Dental Hygienist about what you can do to help. They may recommend the use of artificial saliva products like toothpaste, oral rinses or oral sprays. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe Salagen or Evoxac- medications that help to increase the stimulation of salivary flow. 

What can I do to manage dry mouth? 

• Drink water frequently. Keep water by your bed at night.
• Suck on mints or sugar-free hard candies.
• Avoid oral rinses or drinks that contain alcohol as this increases dryness.
• Avoid salty or dry foods.
• Quit smoking.

Dry mouth is a common problem. It can range from being a nuisance to something that has a major impact on your general well being of life. As well as the health of your teeth. Ask your Dentist or Dental Hygienist about a treatment that would be right for you! 

-A Healthy Smile Starts with a Healthy Body-