Dry mouth is a medical condition that can affect our mouth leading to various problems the least of it is the dry mouth feeling
Our salivary glands are responsible of producing saliva , which is a natural lubricant fluid that have a lot of useful rules in our mouth and body.
It lubricates the tissues making the swallowing and talking easy , it also have anti bacterial properties that reduces the bacterial effect on the teeth and tissues in addition to the dilution of the acid produced by the bacteria causing dental cavities.
Causes of Dry mouth :
Dry mouth can be caused by variety of reasons
1) Stress and anxiety .
2) Some antidepressants medications .
3) Some High blood pressure medications.
4) Cancer radiation to the head and neck region .
5) Dehydration and low water daily intake.
6) Smoking can also affect the salivary flow .
7) Using marijuana .
8) Some autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren's syndrome .
Treatment of Dry mouth :
1) Consult with your doctor about your medications and if it can be replaced with other ones that doesnt cause dry mouth .
2) Increase daily water intake and keeping yourself hydrated by sipping on water .
3) Chewing non sugar gums to stimulate the salivary glands to produce more saliva .
4) Using salivary substitutes like ( Mouthwashes designed for dry mouth, especially ones with xylitol , can be effective, such as Biotene Dry Mouth Oral Rinse or Act Dry Mouth Mouthwash) which also offer protection against tooth decay. .
5) Breathe through your nose, not your mouth. You may need to seek treatment for snoring if it causes you to breathe through your mouth during the night.
6) Moisturize your lips to soothe dry or cracked areas .
7) Reducing sugar intake to reduce the risk of cavities .
8) Regular dental visits and checkups to make sure there are no cavities.
9) Meticulous oral hygiene .
10) Avoid Alcohol , caffeine , tobacco and sugary or acidic citrus foods .
Make sure that you deal with the dry mouth condition before it causes permanent damage .
Call us at 613 824 0600 for a check up
Queenswood Dental Orleans
www.queenswooddental.ca/contact