What’s the Deal with Dry Mouth?

Do you wake up in the morning feeling like you have a mouth full of cotton? Do you find yourself reaching for lozenges, hard candy, mouth spray, or water constantly? If this sounds like you, you are likely one of the millions of people who suffer from dry mouth. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, dry mouth can occur for several reasons. The primary causes are:

• Medication use
• Chemo or radiation 
• Aging 

Some dry mouth sufferers have been diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome. If you are concerned with your dry mouth, come see Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry and they can provide an evaluation of your saliva production. 

Dry Mouth and Oral Health

Dry mouth is concerning because saliva is a natural protective agent for your teeth and gums. Without enough saliva, your teeth are more prone to infections like dental caries (the disease that causes cavities). It can also lead to infected gums. Without saliva, mouth sores and thrush can also become an issue. 

Your dentist will discuss your risk factors and determine if there is anything you can change about your habits to help increase saliva flow. 

Risk Factors for Dry Mouth

Medication use

Most people don’t realize their medication can cause dry mouth. Even over-the-counter medications for colds or allergies can negatively impact saliva flow. Read the warnings and side effects listed and ask your doctor or dentist if you have questions or concerns. 

Chemotherapy and Radiation

Chemo and radiation are extremely hard on the body. During chemo-treatment, your saliva production can decrease. Usually, this is temporary. Head and neck radiation therapy can cause damage to the saliva glands — often resulting in compromised saliva production. 

Recreational drug use/ alcohol use 

Recreational drugs and alcohol can also impact saliva flow. Make sure you provide accurate information to Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry during your exam if they notice a dry mouth. 

Aging

An unfortunate side effect of getting older is a decrease in saliva flow. It can be attributed to medication use, chronic illness, or poor nutrition.

But, I Can’t Stop Taking My Medication…

Most people don’t have much choice when it comes to what’s causing their dry mouth. If it is a side-effect of a necessary medicine, or cancer treatment, going off the medication isn’t much of an option.

There are ways to help stimulate saliva flow and Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry can help determine the best option for your specific case. 

If You Have Dry Mouth, Be Sure to

• Drink plenty of fluids, like milk and water
• Be diligent in your oral hygiene 
• See Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry every 3-6 months 
• Use a saliva supplement spray or product recommended by your dentist

A dry mouth is no fun and can lead to cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and more. Be sure to talk to Bolivia and Oak Island dentists at Coastal Cosmetic Family Dentistry if you suspect your mouth is dry. 

“The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.”