No matter how much water you drink, you just can't shake that feeling. You know, that feeling as if you've been backpacking across the Sahara desert without water. Dry mouth occurs for a number of reasons, some of which are benign in origin and others that are linked to underlying medical conditions. Continue reading to learn more about dry mouth and how to treat
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth also referred to as xerostomia, is a condition where a person’s salivary glands aren’t producing enough saliva to keep their mouth moist. Saliva not only helps prevent tooth decay by washing the bacteria off your teeth, but it also makes it easier to chew and swallow. Furthermore, the enzymes that are within the saliva also helps with the digestion process.
What Are The Causes of Dry Mouth?
There are several reasons why you develop dry mouth. Your salivary glands may not be working properly due to:
• Medications: A lot of medications, including ones that are over-the-counter (OTC) can cause dry mouth. This side effect is most common in medications that are used to treat depression, high blood pressure and anxiety.
• Damage to the nerves: Having surgery or an injury that causes damage to your head or neck can cause dry mouth
• Aging: A large percentage of elderly people also experience dry mouth.
• Prolonged drug use
• Frequent consumption of alcohol
What Are The Consequences of Dry Mouth?
As with any sort of medical condition, there are risks to not having dry mouth treated by Your Dental Office in Toronto, or Etobicoke. If you don’t have a sufficient amount of saliva, here’s what can occur:
• An increase in plaque, which can lead to tooth decay
• Mouth sores
• Cracked lips
• Poor nutrition by not being able to chew and swallow properly
What Are The Treatments Options For Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is treatable, however, the type of treatment you need depends on what's causing the issue.Some of the most common treatments for dry mouth include:
• A change in medication
• Products increase moisture in your mouth
• Practicing good oral health by going to Your Dental Office in Toronto, or Etobicoke• Medication that helps stimulate the production of saliva
Dry mouth is usually nothing more than an inconvenience. As unpleasant as it is, most cases do clear up on their own. If you're suffering from dry mouth and need help finding out why, Your Dental Office in Toronto, or Etobicoke, is here to help. Contact us today to book an appointment!