It is common to experience dry mouth due to dehydration sometimes. However, if it’s a persistent problem, it can be due to some underlying health problems.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common condition that affects approximately 1 in 5 people. It occurs when the salivary glands in the mouth do not produce enough saliva. We need saliva to prevent infection and control bacterial and fungal growth in the mouth— and this condition can lead to a range of oral health problems.
Let’s discuss what can cause people to have dry mouths.
Causes of Dry Mouth
One can experience dry mouth due to the following reasons:
- Medication side effects
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome
- Lifestyle factors, such as smoking or alcohol use
- Dehydration
- Breathing through the mouth due to a blocked nose
- Anxiety
- Nerve Damage
- Aging
- Cancer treatment, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy
Effects of Dry Mouth On Oral Health
Here are some effects of dry mouth on oral health.
Tooth Decay
Saliva naturally keeps your mouth healthy by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. If this bacterial growth is not controlled, it can lead to tooth decay. When someone is experiencing a dry mouth, they are more susceptible to tooth decay because there is less saliva to protect the teeth. Over time, this can lead to cavities and even tooth loss.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another oral health condition that can result from a dry mouth. A dry mouth leads to dry gums, making them more vulnerable to infection and inflammation. It is because there is less saliva to protect them. It can lead to gum disease, which can cause bleeding gums, bad breath, tooth loss, and other oral health problems.
Mouth Sores
A dry mouth can also lead to mouth sores, which can be painful and uncomfortable. A lack of saliva in the mouth can make the tissues dry and irritated, which can cause sores to form.
Fungal Infections
A dry mouth can also lead to fungal infections, such as oral thrush. It is because microorganisms can overgrow in your mouth if there is not enough saliva to reduce the level of bacteria and fungus in your mouth.
Bad Breath
Bad breath can be an embarrassing condition that can affect confidence. When there is less saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria, it can increase odor.
Managing Dry Mouth
To avoid conditions like tooth decay, periodontitis, mouth sores, and more, dry mouth must be treated. Here’s how you can manage dry mouth and protect your oral health.
Staying Hydrated
If you usually experience dry mouth, it can be due to dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water as it can help keep you hydrated and reduce the effects of a dry mouth. Doctors recommend at least four to six glasses of water a day.
Avoiding Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and smoking can dry out your mouth and worsen the symptoms of dry mouth. It is best to avoid or limit your consumption of these substances.
Chewing Sugar-free Gum
Chewing can help stimulate the production of saliva in your mouth. If you experience dry mouth, try to chew sugar-free gum to keep your mouth moist. Chewing gums that contain xylitol can also help reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Using a Humidifier
You can keep a humidifier in your room to help add moisture to the air and reduce the effects of a dry mouth. It can be helpful at night when you are sleeping or if you sleep with your mouth open.
Practicing Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing can help remove food particles and bacteria from the mouth. It can also reduce the effects of a dry mouth, such as bad breath and gum diseases. Moreover, you can ask your dentist to prescribe products that can help.
Consulting the Doctor About Medication and its Side Effects
If you take medicines, it may be the reason why you’re experiencing a dry mouth. Consult your doctor to adjust your medication or prescribe a different one that does not have the same side effects. Your doctor can also give you saliva substitutes if changing the medicine is not possible.
Visit All Smiles Family Dentistry For Expert Consultation
All Smiles Family Dentistry is a renowned dental office Tarzana. Their experienced dental hygienists can recommend effective techniques to manage dry mouth and improve oral hygiene. They provide a range of dental care services with over 30 years of experience. Some of their services include cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, dental veneers, and more.
Contact them now to meet their expert dentists and get the help you need to manage dry mouths.
