Weston’s Top Dentist Explains the Concerns About Dry Mouth

Everyone has experienced a dry mouth at least once in their lifetime. For others, this can be an everyday problem. Depending on the time and frequency of dry mouth (xerostomia), we can learn a lot from this. Occasional dry mouth can be normal from time to time. However, when dry mouth becomes more frequent it can be a sign of an underlying health problem.

What causes dry mouth?

• Dehydration
• Mouth Breathing
• Medications
• Medical conditions
• Malfunctioning saliva glands
• Smoking

Saliva is especially important in protecting your oral health. In a dry mouth, teeth are more susceptible to cavities, your mouth can have a burning feeling, you may have difficulty speaking and swallowing, and may lose your sense of taste. This can be very frustrating and life altering.

Why do you need saliva?

• Neutralize bacteria
• Strengthen teeth
• Begin digestive process
• Aid in taste

Solving dry mouth associated with dehydration is simple, drink more water. For all of the other causes, the solution becomes more challenging. Our first recommendations are sipping water throughout the day, chewing gum containing xylitol, using alcohol-free mouth rinse, limiting caffeine intake, and stopping smoking. If these simple remedies do not work its time to seek adjunctive care.

Products that can help

·         Neutrasal

·         Biotene

·         Oracoat

·         Sugar free candies

If you have tried all of the simple recommendations it may be time to explore the use of mouth rinses that are designed for dry mouth. We have seen patients improve their saliva flow in addition to lowering their chance of gum disease or cavities by using these. Rinsing 2-3 times per day can help change the oral environment and in turn benefit your overall health. If it is medication induced, you should speak to your physician about the medications you are taking and possible alternatives.

Overall, dry mouth is a widespread problem that rarely gets talked about. There are some definite solutions to this issue. If you are experiencing any of dry mouth symptoms, please let us know. We will be happy to discuss the plan of action.

As always, we look forward to seeing you soon.