Dry mouth is a condition during which it feels as though there is not enough saliva inside of your mouth. Just about everyone experiences dry mouth at some point in time. Having frequent dry mouth, however, can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. In fact, it can lead to bigger health problems and be a sign of numerous diseases and conditions.
What Causes Dry Mouth?
It a common side effect of medications used to treat many ailments, including depression and obesity. It is also a symptom of diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease, stroke, and Rheumatoid Arthritis. It can even be a side effect of chemotherapy used to treat cancer. Being nervous, anxious, or stressed can also cause the saliva to dry up and struggle to reproduce.
Symptoms and Treatment
The treatment plan of dry mouth will vary slightly depending on what is causing it to occur in the first place. The symptoms of the condition, however, are the same, regardless of the underlying cause. Symptoms of the condition can include:
It is important to speak to your doctor if the symptoms of dry mouth do not go away with drinking plenty of fluids to keep your mouth and throat moisturized. Long-term damage could occur, such as chronic tooth decay and a higher risk of gingivitis.
Your doctor may want you to switch any medication you are taking. If you are not taking medication that could cause it, medication may be prescribed to make the problem go away.
How to Take Care of Yourself With Dry Mouth
During your treatment of dry mouth, it is important that you take extra care of your teeth because the absence of saliva will create the perfect environment for tooth decay and gingivitis. Your doctor may prescribe a fluoride tray for you to soak your teeth in every night. You should ask for a prescription-strength fluoride-based toothpaste.
Throughout the day, you can sip on water, suck on ice, or enjoy sugar-free candy. You should avoid alcohol, tobacco, and sugary drinks, as they will only make the dry mouth problem worse. At night, put a humidifier in your room to help keep moisture in the air. This will help with any issues dry mouth may cause while you are sleeping.
Don't hesitate to give your dentist a call if you are concerned about dry mouth. Just remember to write down any medication you are taking to assist the dentist in determining what is causing your dry mouth. Contact a company like Carpenter Dental, Charles M. Carpenter DMD, and Chas M. Carpenter DMD for more information.
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