How to Prevent and Treat Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the salivary glands in the mouth fail to produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including difficulty speaking, swallowing, and chewing, as well as bad breath and a dry, sticky feeling in the mouth. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the importance of saliva for oral health, the common causes of dry mouth, and effective ways to prevent and treat it.

Importance of Saliva for Oral Health

Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. It helps to protect the teeth and gums by neutralizing harmful acids, washing away food particles and bacteria, and promoting the growth of healthy bacteria. Saliva also contains important minerals that help to remineralize tooth enamel and prevent decay.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

• Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect.
• Aging: As we age, our bodies produce less saliva, which can lead to dry mouth.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS, can cause dry mouth.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to the head and neck can damage the salivary glands and cause a dry mouth.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, alcohol use, and caffeine consumption can all contribute to dry mouth.

Preventing Dry Mouth

• Drinking plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key to maintaining good saliva production.
• Avoiding dehydrating beverages: Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages can contribute to dehydration and dry mouth.
• Chewing sugar-free gum: Chewing gum can help to stimulate saliva production and keep the mouth moist.
• Limiting alcohol and tobacco use: Alcohol and tobacco can both contribute to dry mouth.
• Using a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help to prevent dry mouth, especially during the winter months.
• Avoiding certain medications: If possible, talk to your doctor about switching to medications that are less likely to cause dry mouth.

Treating Dry Mouth

• Stimulating saliva production: Drinking water, sucking on sugar-free candy or mints, and chewing sugar-free gum can all help to stimulate saliva production.
• Practicing good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and visiting the dentist regularly can all help to prevent dental problems associated with dry mouth.
• Using over-the-counter products: Artificial saliva products, saliva substitutes, and oral rinses can all help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
• Using prescription medications: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications that stimulate saliva production, as well as prescription toothpaste and mouthwash.

Every Smile Mesa

If you are experiencing persistent dry mouth symptoms, difficulty eating or speaking, an increased risk of dental problems, or an underlying medical condition that may be causing dry mouth, it is important to see a doctor. We can help diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. 

Schedule an appointment with us at Every Smile Mesa today if you have the symptoms of dry mouth and seek treatment for it.