Dry Mouth (otherwise known as xerostomia)

Dry mouth is not always normal; if your mouth is constantly dry then it could be that there is a problem with your saliva glands or saliva production. Saliva is incredibly important to the overall health of the mouth as the lack of the right amount of saliva can increase your chances of tooth decay and developing more serious dental afflictions like gum disease. Saliva is also important in keeping the bad bacteria levels in your mouth stable. Low levels of saliva can lead to an increase in plaque as saliva is essential in keeping the mouth clean by removing food debris into the gullet and onto the stomach.

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia can be seen as a symptom of underlying health conditions such as diabetes, Sjogren's syndrome, Lambert–Eaton syndrome among others. Xerostomia can also lead to halitosis and a reduction in the re-mineralising of the enamel, weakening teeth and making them more prone to cavities.

What can cause xerostomia?

Aside from the aforementioned medical conditions, there are a number of causes for xerostomia from smoking to medication side effects. In order to treat xerostomia (dry mouth) it is best to try and isolate possible causes before approaching your dentist so that they, in accordance with your doctor can treat it without interfering with any other treatments you may be receiving.

Xerostomia factors

An underlying medical condition such as anaemia, mumps, hypertension, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and Parkinson's disease among others previously mentioned can cause xerostomia. Medications and medical treatment side effects can also cause xerostomia, in particular chemotherapy can decrease the amount of saliva produced. It should be also noted that patients suffering from nerve damage from trauma caused by surgery or injury to the head or neck area can also suffer from dry mouth.

Dealing with Dry Mouth/xerostomia

Dry mouth sufferers should try to keep themselves hydrated, preferably with water, and should try to encourage the production of saliva by chewing sugar free gum or sugar free candies. Sufferers of xerostomia should also try to breathe through their nose, as breathing through the mouth will only increase the dryness in the mouth. Also if you live in a very dry condition, then it can help to use a room humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air you breathe in. In the cases of severe dryness, you should consult your dentist and doctor to discuss possible medications or medical side effects of any treatment you are currently undergoing or if you suspect you have an underlying undiagnosed medical condition.

Need Advice about Having Dry Mouth problems? Search, Compare & Find Local Denplan, NHS & Private Dentists in your area with DentistsCompare.com