What you should know about dry mouth

What you should know about dry mouth

Dry mouth can be caused by a number of factors and can lead to certain oral health problems.

If you suffer from dry mouth, you will know that the issue can be uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the problem is fairly common, especially for those with underlying health conditions or who take certain medications. But dry mouth can also be caused by lifestyle habits and, if left unresolved, can affect the condition of your smile. Read on to learn about the possible causes of dry mouth, its most common symptoms, and what you can do to address the problem…

What is dry mouth, exactly?

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition that occurs when the salivary glands do not produce as much saliva as they should. The mouth is packed with salivary glands that help to keep the mouth moist and clean. Saliva benefits one’s oral health in many ways —it mineralises the enamel of the teeth, rinses away food particles and other debris, and supports many of the tissues in the mouth.

When healthy amounts of saliva are produced, the risk of problems like tooth decay and gum disease tends to be lower. On the other hand, when the mouth feels dry, it can be difficult and/or uncomfortable to perform basic oral functions like speaking, chewing, and swallowing, and you may notice issues like bad breath.

What are the risk factors for dry mouth?

Dry mouth can be caused by a number of factors. Generally, anything that is likely to dehydrate your body, in general, is likely to lead to a dry mouth.

Certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, increase one’s risk of dry mouth, while many medications can cause the issue as well. Certain lifestyle habits, such as the use of tobacco and alcohol, as well as excessive consumption of caffeine, can also lead to dry mouth.

Advanced age, anxiety, nerve damage, and radiation therapy are also known risk factors for dry mouth.

What problems can dry mouth cause?

A dry mouth can feel very uncomfortable, but the issue can have much more serious implications than an unpleasant sensation. Saliva helps to maintain the overall health of the mouth, so if you suffer from persistent dryness, you may be at greater risk of issues like tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores, and cracked lips. You may also have difficulty chewing and swallowing and experience chronic bad breath.

Individuals with dentures may notice that their appliances do not attach to their gums as they should. In this case, it is important to consult with your dentist as soon as possible.

Can you prevent dry mouth?

Dry mouth can cause a range of oral health issues, which is why it is advisable that you try to prevent the problem altogether. It is a good idea to enjoy caffeine and alcohol in moderation only and to avoid lifestyle habits like tobacco use.

Try to commit to good oral hygiene habits every day by brushing and flossing regularly and seeing your dentist for a check-up every six months. If you have an underlying health condition or are taking medications that are drying out your mouth, be sure to let your dentist know so that they can factor this into any treatment they plan for you.

It is advisable that you drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. You may also find it helpful to chew on sugar-free gum as this can help promote saliva production.

How can we help?

At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, we encourage our patients to come in and see us every six months so that we can identify and address any potential issues as early as possible. If you are struggling with dry mouth and suspect that it could be affecting your oral health, please don’t hesitate to come in and see us.

To find out about the range of services we offer at The Smile Speciality Dental Group, please have a look here.

To book an appointment to see us, please contact us here or give us a call at 07 3889 3324.