Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can be frustrating and uncomfortable but it’s more than just an annoyance — it’s a serious dental health issue. Saliva is responsible for washing away leftover food, neutralizing acids, and creating a protective coating over teeth. Without enough saliva, your teeth are left unprotected from leftover food, acids, and cavity-causing bacteria.
What Causes Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth can be caused by dehydration, anxiety, allergies, side effects of prescription and non-prescription drugs, hypertension, asthma, side effects of diseases and infections, chemotherapy, a caffeine-filled diet, and tobacco use.
Basic Tips For Controlling Dry Mouth
- Cut Out Drinks That Cause Dry Mouth: Cut out coffee, alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is a simple and important step.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum: This can stimulate the salivary glands to release more saliva temporarily.
- Use a Saliva Substitute: According to the ADA, it can temporarily relieve dry mouth symptoms.
- Don’t Use Mouthwashes That Contain Alcohol: Opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash with xylitol as an ingredient.
- Suck On Sugar-Free Lozenges: Similar to sugar-free gum, these can stimulate saliva production.
- Breathe Through Your Nose: To reduce the amount of moisture you lose to the outside air, breathe through your nose not your mouth.
- Use a Humidifier: If you tend to breathe through your mouth during the night, a humidifier will add moisture to the air.
Make sure to still see a dentist every 6 months to catch any early dental problems caused by your dry mouth. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists fill out our online contact form or give us a call.