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.
Remember, if you have dry mouth, you need to be extra careful to keep your teeth healthy. Make sure you:
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2.Floss your teeth every day.
3.Use toothpaste with fluoride in it. Most toothpastes sold at grocery and drug stores have fluoride in them.
4.Avoid sticky, sugary foods. If you do eat them, brush immediately afterwards.
5.Visit your dentist for a check-up at least twice a year. Your dentist might also suggest you use a prescription-strength fluoride gel (which is like a toothpaste) to help prevent dental decay.
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