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The Causes of Dry Mouth: What’s Causing Your Problems?

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The Causes of Dry Mouth: What’s Causing Your Problems?

the-causes-of-dry-mouth-whats-causing-your-problems

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!

What is Dry Mouth?

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.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

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

Causes of Dry Mouth

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.

Treatment for Dry Mouth

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.

Dental Treatments for Dry Mouth

Your treatment depends on the cause of your dry mouth. Your doctor or dentist may:

  • Change medications that cause xerostomia. If your doctor believes medication to be the cause, he or she may adjust your dosage or switch you to another medication that doesn’t cause xerostomia.
  • Recommend products to moisturize your mouth. These can include prescription or over-the-counter mouth rinses, artificial saliva or moisturizers to lubricate your mouth. Mouthwashes designed for xerostomia, especially ones with xylitol, can be effective, such as Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse or Act Dry Mouth Mouthwash, which also offer protection against tooth decay.

If you have severe xerostomia, your dentist may:

  • Prescribe medication that stimulates saliva. Your doctor may prescribe pilocarpine (Salagen) or cevimeline (Evoxac) to stimulate saliva production.
  • Protect your teeth. To prevent cavities, your dentist might fit you for fluoride trays, which you fill with fluoride and wear over your teeth at night. Your dentist may also recommend weekly use of a chlorhexidine rinse to control cavities.

Risks of Dry Mouth

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.

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry

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!

 


291 E Flatiron Crossing Dr,
Broomfield, CO 80021

(303) 731-7755

 

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.