Can you believe the school year is half over?

As you and your child stock up on those school supplies, you’ll also want to keep dental health and hygiene top of mind. 

Here are simple ways to keep your child’s smile at its best while school is in session:

• Put a small toothbrush and toothpaste in your child’s backpack to use after lunch
• Fill the lunch box with nutritious, dental-friendly foods like apples, celery, yogurt and milk
• Pack a water bottle instead of juice to limit sugar intake and oral bacteria growth
• Have a mouthguard ready to protect your child’s smile during sports and gym activities

It may also be easier to get your child’s dental check-up completed before your busy summer starts. If it’s been some time since your child’s last visit, schedule an appointment today by calling. For additional information on our pediatric dental services, visit our website

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

If you suffer from dry mouth, you are not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from xerostomia, or the subjective perception of dry mouth.

 

Causes include medications (including those used to treat depression, anxiety, allergies, high blood pressure, asthma, muscle relaxants, sedatives), systemic diseases (Sjogren's, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma), radiation therapy, dehydration, mouth-breathing habits, smoking, and chewing tobacco.

Symptoms of xerostomia include the obvious dry, sticky feeling in the mouth and throat, but can also include difficulty eating and swallowing or wearing dentures, as well as changes in taste or burning/tingling sensations in the mouth.  People suffering from dry mouth often have sores in the mouth, a dry tongue, and cracks on the corners of the mouth.  There is an increased risk of susceptibility to oral candida, as well as decalcification of enamel, acid erosion, and gingival inflammation. 

So what can you do if you suffer from dry mouth?

Because xerostomia can cause substantial oral problems, it is best to talk with your dentist or hygienist as soon as you notice symptoms of a dry mouth.  Early recognition allows us to personalize a treatment protocol for you.  A dry mouth increases the risk for tooth decay, periodontal disease, and candida (yeast) infections.  For this reason, we must make an extra effort to protect the teeth and oral tissues.  We may prescribe oral rinses, fluoride trays, or saliva-stimulating medications.  We can instruct on the proper tools and techniques for home care.  Patients with dry mouth will want to avoid alcohol, caffeine, acidic beverages, or products that may irritate oral tissues (including whitening products).  A humidifier at home can often help, and in some cases, the physician can prescribe an alternative medication with less drying side-effects.

If you have questions about xerostomia or believe you are suffering from it and would like to speak with a dentist, please visit our website www.kalamazoodds.com and use the "Contact Us" page to schedule an appointment.