Cures and Causes of Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Have you ever woken up with a dry mouth, or even throughout your day, struggle to taste your food because your mouth is so dry? You may have xerostomia, or dry mouth syndrome. Your salivary glands may have stopped working properly and caused your mouth to start feeling drier and drier. Salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which in turn, helps prevent tooth decay and many other oral health problems.
There are many causes to xerostomia, but the most common is medications. In fact, over 400 medications list dry mouth as a side effect. The most common medicines that can contribute to your mouth drying up are: anti-hypertensives, anti-depressants, pain killers, tranquilizers, diuretics, and anti-histamines.
Xerostomia can also be a sign of more serious health conditions. Dry mouth has been seen as a symptom to people with diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, AIDS and cancer. It’s important to know your body and read the signs carefully. If you feel that your dry mouth may be more than just a side effect of a medication or dehydration, call your physician to get it checked.
Now, how can your dentist help?
There are many treatments that can help ease the symptoms of xerostomia, including over the counter rewetting agents. To help alleviate the discomfort we have some recommendations we make in our office:
Brush twice a day and floss daily
Rinse with Biotene mouth rinse (you can purchase at any drug store)
Chew sugar free gum to encourage saliva flow (if you don’t have jaw issues)
Avoid smoking
Avoid acidic foods (i.e. tomatoes, oranges, grapefruits etc.)
Avoid dry foods (i.e. bread, crackers, etc.)
Avoid overly salty foods that will dehydrate you
Drink lots of water to hydrate your body
Most importantly, visit your dentist regularly, so they can keep track of your oral health
Sources: http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=w&iid=187&aid=1235
Written by: Elle Campbell, Expanded Function Dental Assistant
