Nearly everyone experiences intermittent dry mouth. For millions of people, though, dry mouth is a chronic condition they suffer from daily.
Xerostomia is a condition also known as dry mouth. A dry mouth is when you do not have enough saliva to keep your mouth wet and moisturized. A common side effect of many prescription medications is dry mouth, and it’s more common as we age.
Numerous things can cause dry mouth, including:
- Stress and anxiety
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Autoimmune disorders or Sjögren’s syndrome
- Cancer treatments or Chemotherapy
- Dehydration
- Damage to the nerves that control saliva production
- Mouth breathing
- Radiation therapy
- Medical conditions
Long-term dry mouth and lack of saliva can contribute to several dental problems. Problems including cavities and gum disease are most common, because it will attract oral bacteria.
Treatment for Dry Mouth
Dr. Sowell and Dr. Chen offer customized rinses, gels, and moisturizers to relieve the symptoms of dry mouth. These products also prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. We provide personalized treatments for each patient, to restore the ideal oral chemistry. You can use rinses many times per day.
Saliva serves an important role in dental health:
- Protects and strengthens tooth enamel
- Delivers important minerals
- Washes away food and plaque
- Neutralizes acid and bacteria
- Keeps breath fresh
Dr. Sowell and Dr. Chen may recommend simple habits and lifestyle changes to increase saliva production. You can chew sugar-free gum, drinking more water, and brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste. Rinsing with a fluoride rinse, breathing through your nose (not your mouth), and avoiding certain foods and drinks will also help. Most importantly, visit our dentists every 6 months for a regular dental check-up.
Dry Mouth FAQs
How does dry mouth affect oral health?
Dry mouth may increase a patient’s risk of having further health problems, such as tooth decay. Saliva contains things that attack bacteria, keeping your teeth from decaying.
Is dry mouth a sign of diabetes?
Dry mouth is one of the most common signs of diabetes. Patients with type-1 and type-2 diabetes commonly experience dry mouth.
Is dry mouth a sign of dehydration?
Dry mouth can be a sign of dehydration. This means your body does not have enough fluids to produce saliva, causing dry mouth.
Request a Dental Exam Today
If you suffer from dry mouth, contact Dr. Mark Sowell’s and Dr. Chen’s dental office in Plano for a consultation. Call (972) 382-6855 or request an appointment online.