From time to time, everyone’s mouth runs dry. It can be the result of fear or stress, and usually the condition goes away after the moment has passed. However, chronic dry mouth is a condition that should not be ignored.
Your mouth is designed to stay moist. The saliva in your mouth helps to digest your food, delivers fluoride to your teeth, and washes away the acids that are leftover from your food. It is an important part of preventing dental and oral problems. If it is not treated, dry mouth can lead to infections in your mouth, cavities, and gum disease.
Dry mouth can be the result of dehydration, If you are not drinking enough water, dry mouth can occur. Medication for high blood pressure, Parkinson’s, depression and cancer can contribute to dry mouth. Dry mouth can be one of the conditions associated with Parkinson’s and some immune disorders.
To address the problem, your dentist may have you increase your intake of water, or use a humidifier in your home. Your dentist may also want to speak with your physician about your medical conditions and your medications, and it is always a good idea for your dentist to be familiar with your medical history. Your dentist may give you a prescription to increase your saliva production or for artificial saliva. You may need to cut back or eliminate coffee or tea or tobacco. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless hard candy can also stimulate the production of saliva. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day and seeing your dentist for your regular appointments will also help in defeating dry mouth.
If you have concerns about dry mouth or are interested in finding out more about other dental procedures, our dentist, Dr. Marcus Lopez and the staff at Trecker and Lopez Family Dentistry will be happy to see you. If you live in the Springfield, Massachusetts, area, call 413-782-5159 today to make an appointment.