Dry mouth is more than just uncomfortable – it can also threaten your oral health. Luckily, you can keep your teeth and gums safe from most of its negative effects. Today, we’ll examine what this condition is, what it does, and how to protect your mouth from its wrath.
Why You Might Have Dry Mouth
Many risk factors contribute to dry mouth. Some of the most common include:
- Medication use
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Mouth breathing
- Cancer treatments
- Diseases like Sjogren’s syndrome
- Old age
- Genetics
Many of these factors are outside of your control. However, that doesn’t mean that dry mouth isn’t something you should be concerned about.
Why Dry Mouth Matters
Saliva is one of your mouth’s best defenses against oral bacteria. It not only helps wash away food particles and bacteria before they can mix together to form plaque, but also delivers vital minerals that strengthen your tooth enamel.
Dry mouth robs your oral biome of this important protector. This puts you at greater risk of developing oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease. It may also lead to cracked, chapped lips and uncomfortable mouth sores.
What Can You Do About It?
You don’t have to accept dry mouth as a fact of life. The following strategies may help you get your saliva flowing again.
- Chew sugar-free gum.
- Suck on sugar-free candies.
- Sip water more frequently.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night.
- Ask your doctor about switching medications.
If you’re still struggling to keep your mouth moist, talk to your dentist about it. You may be able to mitigate some of the damage with extra fluoride treatments, sealants, more frequent cleanings, and other oral health boosters.
Keep Dry Mouth Problems at Bay with Coscarella Family Dentistry
Even when you get your dry mouth under control, it’s important to get regular dental checkups to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy. Contact the team here at Coscarella Family Dentistry today to make your next appointment.
