Everyone’s had a parched mouth at some point, and that’s perfectly normal. However, if the condition persists, you likely have dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. Your trusted team at Main Street Dental Smiles will work with you to manage your symptoms and safeguard the health of your teeth and gums. You can count on us for exceptional care and service.
What Is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth develops when the salivary glands fail to produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist and hydrated. That can be quite a problem because your saliva neutralizes the acids bacteria produce and washes away food debris and bacteria, lowering the risk of tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease.
Patients with dry mouth are at a higher risk of plaque accumulation, fungal infections (thrush), cracked lips, mouth sores, grooved tongues, and bad breath, a condition known as halitosis. They often report difficulty chewing and swallowing, a dry or sore throat, a hoarse voice, stringy saliva, changes in taste and smell, and trouble wearing oral appliances such as dentures.
What Are the Causes of Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth can result from dehydration, the natural aging process, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, snoring, and mouth breathing. It can also develop as a side effect of certain medications or a result of health conditions such as diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, stroke, or autoimmune diseases.
How Can You Manage Your Dry Mouth?
There are some things you can do to help stimulate saliva production and keep your mouth moist. These include sipping water throughout the day and rinsing with water or mouthwash after every meal. Many patients find relief by sucking on sugar-free candy, chewing sugarless gum, rinsing with mouthwash containing xylitol, and limiting caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco products.
How Is Dry Mouth Treated?
If your dry mouth persists, contact your trusted team at Main Street Dental Smiles. We will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the best course of treatment for dry mouth relief. We will also discuss treatment options to prevent any damage to your oral health.
Dry mouth treatment options may include a prescription medicated gel or artificial saliva to keep your mouth hydrated. We may also recommend a medicated mouth rinse or a fluoride rinse to fortify your tooth enamel and lower the risk of tooth decay. In some cases, drug therapy may be the recommended course of action to stimulate saliva production and combat your dry mouth.
If we suspect that one of your current medications is the cause of your dry mouth, we may refer you to your healthcare provider. Switching medications whenever possible may help relieve your dry mouth symptoms. Make sure you never adjust dosages, change, or stop taking your prescribed medicines without consulting your healthcare professional.
Dry Mouth Care Near Me in Whitesboro, TX
Contact Main Street Dental Smiles to learn more about managing the symptoms of dry mouth. Drs. Fort and Schilling will evaluate your unique needs and create a custom treatment plan to help relieve your dry mouth symptoms while ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy and sound. Call our office at 903-564-3451 to schedule your appointment today!