Do you often feel like your mouth is dry? Are you having trouble speaking, swallowing, or tasting food? If so, you may be suffering from dry mouth. This condition can be caused by a number of factors, including medications, health conditions, and even lifestyle choices. In this blog post, we will explore the causes of dry mouth and offer some solutions to help you get relief!
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth do not produce enough saliva. The American Dental Association explains that xerostomia is a common, but sometimes overlooked, condition that is typically associated with salivary gland hypofunction. Reduced salivary flow can cause difficulties in tasting, chewing, swallowing, and speaking; it can also increase the chance of developing dental decay, demineralization of teeth, tooth sensitivity, and/or oral infections. There are a variety of potential causes of xerostomia, including adverse effects of medication, toxicity of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy of the head and neck, autoimmune disease, other chronic disease, and nerve damage.
When it comes to xerostomia, a person may experience any or all of the following symptoms. It can vary from person to person, but symptoms can include:
– A feeling of thirst
– Frequent urination
– Cracked lips
– Sore throat
– Difficulty swallowing
– Hoarseness
– Bad breath
– A burning sensation in the mouth
– Dry, sticky, or furry tongue
– Difficulty speaking
– Increased risk of cavities and gum disease
There are many potential causes of xerostomia, including:
– Medications: Dozens of common medications can cause xerostomia as a side effect, including antihistamines, decongestants, pain relievers, and high blood pressure medications. If you are taking any medication, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if it could be contributing to your dry mouth.
– Health conditions: Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke are just a few of the health conditions that can cause xerostomia.
– Nerve damage: Damage to the nerves that control saliva production can result in xerostomia. This can be caused by head injuries, surgery, or radiation therapy to the head and neck area.
– Lifestyle choices: Smoking tobacco products and drinking alcohol are both major risk factors for xerostomia. Additionally, xerostomia is a common side effect of stress.
If you are suffering from dry mouth, there are a number of things you can do to get relief. Some simple at-home solutions include:
– Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
– Drinking plenty of water and other sugar-free beverages
– Avoiding tobacco products, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages
– Using a humidifier at night
– Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
– Avoiding mouthwashes that contain alcohol
If you are still experiencing xerostomia after trying these home remedies, you may need to see a dentist.
Your treatment depends on the cause of your dry mouth. Your doctor or dentist may:
If left untreated, xerostomia can affect your dental health. This is because saliva is essential for keeping your mouth healthy and preventing tooth decay. When there is not enough saliva, you are at a higher risk for cavities and gum disease. Additionally, xerostomia can make it difficult to eat or speak.
If you are experiencing dry mouth, make an appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry today. We will work with you to find the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and protect your oral health. Contact us today to learn more!
When you visit our Broomfield dental office, your smile is our top priority. Our Dentists invite you to experience the difference a warm and caring team can provide for you and your family. Enjoy a unique and comfortable dental experience designed to bring a healthier and happier smile back into your life. We invite you to call or visit our Broomfield dental office and discover the exceptional difference we offer to those we serve.