Dry mouth results from an inadequate flow of saliva. It is a symptom rather than a specific disorder. Adequate salivary flow is necessary to lubricate your oral tissues, cleanse your mouth and begins the digestive process as food is chewed. When salivary flow is reduced harmful organisms grow in your mouth.
Chronic dry mouth can be as simple as a nuisance for some people, or it can be the sign of a serious health problem for others. Left untreated, dry mouth may lead to an oral yeast infection, burning sensation, rampant tooth decay, bad breath and other oral health problems. Chronic dry mouth can make swallowing difficult.
A dry mouth irritates your oral soft tissues and can make you more susceptible to infection, tooth decay and periodontal disease. The shielding effects of your saliva protect you and continuously lubricate your soft tissues. Dry mouth also causes full dentures to become less comfortable because your saliva provides a protective film to allow proper adherence of the dentures to the underlying soft tissues.
Dry mouth is a potential adverse effect of more than 400 different medications such as antihistamines, diuretics, and antidepressants. Be sure to read the information that accompanies your medications. If you think that your medication is causing dryness, consult your dentist or physician. In some cases an alternative medication could be prescribed.
Dry mouth may also be a result from radiation treatment for head and neck cancer, salivary gland disease, emotional stress and autoimmune diseases such as diabetes. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy have also been associated with a dry mouth. Getting relief from dry mouth can be as easy as increasing your fluid intake. Your dentist or physician may recommend artificial saliva available at the pharmacy to keep your oral tissues moist.
Other remedies include:
Sugar free gum Sugar free lemon candies Alcohol-free mouth rinses
Reduced intake of caffeine, alcohol or carbonated beverages Regular visits to your dentist and alerting him (her) of the medications that you are taking will enable them to be aware of the oral manifestations of dry mouth and the best method of treating it before a serious problem arises.
About the Author
Dr. Richard Glick is a graduate of Georgetown Dental School with a specialty degree in Periodontics. His office is unique in providing treatment in one office by Specialists in all phases of dental care including cosmetics and family dentistry. Contact Dr. Glick at (401) 943-6311 or on the web at http://oceanstatedentists.com/index.html.
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