Dry mouth, for many, only occurs after a long day in the sun, drinking far too much wine or even resting with their mouth open. As irritating as it may be, the effects eventually wear off. However, those with chronic dry mouth struggle with the condition daily which can leave them feeling less confident and in pain. Over one in four adults suffer from dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia.
It’s imperative to manage dry mouth right away to avoid further oral hygiene issues from escalating. Appleby Dental has reviewed additional facts and tips on Xerostomia for you below:
Xerostomia Facts You Should Know
Dry mouth is a condition that impacts the salivary glands and causes the glands to be unable to produce enough saliva flow. The result is an extremely dry mouth and throat.
Saliva is conducive to a healthy functioning mouth and the moisture helps to break down food and allow you to swallow properly. Saliva also functions as a cleanser to wash and remove plaque from your teeth and gums.
Xerostomia does not allow proper flow of saliva, therefore the mouth can become sore and lead to potential gum disease and tooth decay. Dry mouth can be a result of side effects from certain medications to treat diseases that affect the heart, blood pressure, and mental illness. This condition can also be caused by consistent drug, alcohol, or tobacco use. An injury or surgery side effect can lead to nerve damage to the neck and head areas which triggers dry mouth.
Tips To Treat Xerostomia
Routine dental checkups are of vital importance to maintain healthy teeth and gums. As previously stated, there is a much higher risk of developing tooth decay or gum disease with dry mouth. Visiting the dentist will help prevent severe dental problems before they arise.
Sugar-free gum can help ease the pain of dry mouth and can help the salivary glands produce saliva. Appleby Dental can recommend specific gels, fluoride toothpaste, and rinses as well.
Changing your lifestyle choices can be helpful to avoid dry mouth. Stay hydrated with water frequently, especially at night when your mouth is more vulnerable to dryness. Avoid a mouthwash that had alcohol in its ingredients, as the alcohol will contribute further to your Xerostomia condition.
Investing in a humidifier for your room can help prevent dry mouth by producing more moisture in the environment. One study found that humidifiers can improve the symptoms of dry mouth and improve sleep.
Ensure you’re routinely flossing and brushing your teeth twice daily to improve your oral routine. This protects your teeth and gums from preventable diseases and dry mouth.
At Appleby Dental, our team of dental hygienists and assistants work to prevent dental problems to keep you happy and healthy. With regular at-home dental care and visiting our dentist’s office in Burlington, you have a higher chance of keeping your teeth and gums in top condition! We welcome any new patients to give us a call or stop by our office to learn more today!