DRY MOUTH: Xerostomia or Dry Mouth is common and often can be improved with some simple supplements or treatment. You may be suffering from xerostomia if you are experiencing a dry mouth sensation during the day and/or night, your saliva has become sticky or stringy, and you have bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth, or your taste of food changes.
SYMPTOMS: If you’re not producing enough saliva, you may notice these signs and symptoms all or most of the time:
Dryness or a feeling of stickiness in your mouth
Saliva that seems thick and stringy
Bad breath
Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing
Dry or sore throat and hoarseness
Dry or grooved tongue
A changed sense of taste
Problems wearing dentures
CAUSES: Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands in the mouth don’t make enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. These glands may not function properly as the result of:
Medications
Aging: Many older people experience dry mouth as they age.
Cancer Therapy: Radiation treatments to your head and neck can damage salivary glands, causing a marked decrease in saliva production.
Nerve damage: An injury or surgery that causes nerve damage to your head and neck area can result in dry mouth.
Other Health Conditions: Dry mouth can be due to certain health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, yeast infection, or due to autoimmune diseases, such as Sjogren’s syndrome or HIV/AIDS.
Tobacco and Alcohol Use.
TREATMENT: Treatment for dry mouth depends on what is causing the problem. Managing Underlying Medical Conditions Causing Dry Mouth
Preventing Tooth Decay: Without saliva, tooth decay and gum disease are more likely to occur. If you have a dry mouth, you need to pay extra attention to good oral hygiene habits
Increasing the Flow of Saliva: Your dentist may recommend the use of artificial saliva products. These products are available over-the-counter in a rinse or spray. Toothpaste, mouthwashes, and moisturizing gels that are specially formulated for individuals with dry mouth are also available.
Managing Underlying Medical Conditions Causing Dry Mouth
If you feel the treatment is the right option for you, consult with our dentist at Jehangir OraCare Dental Centre or give us a call on +91-8149060597 to schedule an appointment.