Dealing with dry mouth can be a pain, especially if it is chronic. When dry mouth persists, it is results in oral decay. Hence, it is so important to seek professional dental assistance if you are suffering from chronic dry mouth. Addressing dry mouth promptly can help you avoid oral health issues that can quickly progress to tooth decay. Whenever we treat a patient with dry mouth, we try to help them to understand the short and long term effects of the condition. Additionally, we teach them ways to reduce mouth dryness. If you are having problems with dry mouth, you’ll find the following information helpful.
The Risks Associated With Dry Mouth
The clinical term for dry mouth is xerostomia (xero – Greek for dry, stomia – Greek for mouth). The condition is also known by the colloquial term ‘cotton mouth’. Saliva is a natural protectant of the gums and mouth. When a lack of saliva production exists, food particles and bacterial acids accumulate. In turn, this leads to dental problems including:
- Erosion of enamel: As plaque builds on teeth and in the gum pockets, it slowly begins to wear away enamel.
- Gum disease: Dry mouth harms gums because they require constant levels of moisture to remain healthy. Additionally, drier conditions in the mouth usually result in infections in the gums—which results in gum disease.
- Discoloration of teeth: Saliva washes the teeth, but when it is reduced consumables often leave remnants that stain teeth.
- Decay & loss of teeth: Elongated dry mouth conditions will gradually cause the above conditions which will cause tooth decay and eventual tooth loss.
Ways To Reduce Dry Mouth
Taking steps to reduce xerostomia is highly recommended to protect your teeth from extensive damage. Obviously sooner you seek professional assistance with the condition the better it is. Yet, in the meantime you can use the following tips to help yourself.
- Increase your water intake: Sometimes dry mouth is simply a result of poor hydration. Drinking water throughout the day, along with meals, can alleviate dry mouth in some cases. Even if it does not, it will wash away food particles and help to balance your mouth’s pH level.
- Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing gum is a natural way to stimulate saliva production; however, sugar laden gums are counterproductive. Thus, try a sugar free gum; especially after meals.
At Dr. Mehta and Associates, we have a variety of ways to treat dry mouth. But first we must understand the underlying cause for your xerostomia. Call us today to schedule an appointment to get the relief you are seeking.(951) 383-6858 (Temecula office) or (951) 667-1595 (Riverside office)
