Any person can experience having a dry mouth which could be caused by medications, dehydration or breathing through the mouth. When someone has a chronic dry mouth, this can become a serious problem. Dry Mouth, medically referred to as Xerostomia, is a condition where the mouth does not make enough saliva to perform its vital functions. One of these functions is controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth which helps to prevent infections and tooth decay. Because Dry Mouth can cause serious tooth decay it is important to be aware of its symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Dry Mouth:
- Frequent thirst
- A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- A dry, red, raw tongue
- Sores in the mouth, split skin or sores at the corners of the mouth, cracked lips
- A dry feeling in the throat
- Bad breath
- A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, especially on the tongue
Common Causes of Dry Mouth:
- Medications – Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines and painkillers are a common cause of Dry Mouth.
- Dehydration – This would include dehydration from illnesses or conditions that cause fever, vomiting, excessive sweating, etc.
- Smoking - Smoking can aggravate a dry mouth condition.
- Diseases – Certain diseases such as diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, sleep apnea, Parkinson’s disease to name a few.
- Damage to the salivary glands – Medical treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy to the neck can damage the salivary glands. Of course, there can also be a situation where the salivary glands have to be removed.
- Nerve Damage – A person could suffer nerve damage from a head or neck injury that could cause the saliva glands to not function or function improperly.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Dry Mouth can be both a symptom of and cause poor oral hygiene.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help relieve Dry Mouth.
5 Remedies for Dry Mouth
- Hydrate. Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist.
- Proper Oral Care. Regularly brushing, flossing and rinsing (avoid alcohol mouth rinse if you are experiencing Dry Mouth).
- Breathing. Breath through your nose, not your mouth, as much as possible.
- Humidifier. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the bedroom air.
- Saliva Substitutes. There are over-the-counter products that help substitute for the lack of saliva.
If you suspect you may have dry mouth it is important to first seek treatment about what's causing your dry mouth. If you feel like your mouth is always dry, a dentist will check your teeth for signs of decay that can result from decreased salivary flow. A physician can test for any underlying disease or conditions that may be causing your dry mouth.
Summary
If Dry Mouth is not treated it can lead to serious tooth decay. The best way to prevent this is to keep your regular exam appointments with your dentist. If you suspect you may have Dry Mouth; please call our office at (503) 257-3033 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dave to have him evaluate your condition.
Wishing you the best for 2020,
Dr. Dave Carothers
East Portland Dentist