While it may not sound like a big deal, a dry mouth can not only be extremely uncomfortable to deal with, but it can also pose a serious threat to your smile health. Adequate levels of saliva are needed to help you chew your food, swallow and even speak. However, your saliva also plays a crucial role in your oral health. It rinses away bacteria from your teeth and gums as well as neutralizes harmful acids inside your mouth. Without enough spit, your risk for decay is up to three times greater! Considering that 1 in 4 adults suffer from some degree of dry mouth, it is imperative that you understand its culprits and consequences so that you can seek proper treatment.
Dry Mouth Culprits
A dry mouth can originate from a number of causes, including some you may not be able to control. Common culprits include certain prescription medications and chemotherapy as well as diabetes, anxiety/depression, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other diseases. Finding out what is triggering your dry mouth is essential to treating this condition.
Treating Dry Mouth
Treating dry mouth should never be optional. A neglected dry mouth can threaten your gums and teeth, and it is a common source of bad breath. At Dream Dentist, we will determine the cause of your dry mouth before initiating treatment. Managing this condition may include a mouth spray, moisturizing lubricant, oral rinse or a toothpaste designed specifically for dry mouth. Some patients find that chewing gum helps to stimulate and increase saliva production. If you find yourself dealing with “cotton mouth” on a daily basis, please contact our office for dry mouth treatment. A healthy smile is a comfortable smile.
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