Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is more than simply feeling thirsty. Dry mouth is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on your oral health. If you have noticed a dryness in your mouth, a sticky feeling on your tongue, cheeks, or roof of your mouth, or you feel the urge to drink a lot of water without ever satisfying the dryness in your mouth then it is time to talk with your dentist.

Dry mouth may seem like an annoying inconvenience, but it is actually a serious condition that can contribute to bad breath, an inability to swallow food, a difficulty in speaking, and can cause the rapid progression of tooth decay.

Xerostomia is the medical name for dry mouth, and it is considered to be a medical condition. There are multiple causes for dry mouth. The most common cause of dry mouth is the taking of medications. Hundreds of medications produce dry mouth as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs can also change the amount of saliva that is created in the mouth, producing dry mouth in patients. Because medications and chemotherapy drugs are necessary in the treatment of cancer, depression, anxiety, and neuropathy they should never be stopped without the guidance and permission of your doctor. However, it is very important to talk with your doctor about this side effect because often another drug or medication can be prescribed.

Tobacco use through smoking or chewing tobacco can increase dry mouth symptoms. Long term tobacco use significantly reduces the amount of saliva that is produced in the mouth and increases oral and dental disorders, especially cavities, gingivitis, halitosis, and tooth loss.

At Sycamore Hills Dentistry we can help you find a dental treatment for dry mouth. Topical fluoride treatments, prescription at-home fluoride, specific mouth rinses, and Xylitol gum can be helpful in treating the symptoms of dry mouth. It is also important that your mouth be examined through diagnostic X-rays more often to prevent and restore dental decay. If you have persistent dry mouth, please contact our dental practice today. We are here to help you achieve and maintain the healthiest possible. 

Posted on behalf of Sycamore Hills Dentistry