Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is a condition which affects the flow of saliva, causing the mouth to feel dry.
How can I tell that I have dry mouth?
Aside from the most obvious symptom, which is your mouth feeling uncomfortably dry, there are other symptoms to watch out for. Some people say their saliva feels thick and sticky, others have a burning sensation in their mouth.
What are the dangers of dry mouth?
Our mouths need saliva to work properly. It is our primary defense against tooth decay. Our saliva neutralizes plaque acids and constantly washes around our mouth and teeth, fighting cavities and helping us keep our teeth clean.
Dry mouth can affect our speech. In addition, having less saliva can affect the taste of the food we eat and can make it harder to eat drier foods. People with dry mouth also have a higher tendency to have bad breath.
How can I manage dry mouth?
If you have dry mouth, we encourage you to consult your doctor and visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Here are some simple ways to help relieve dry mouth:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Use lip lubricants as prescribed and advised by your doctor.
- Chew sugar-free gum.
- Avoid salty, spicy, sugary and hard-to-chew food.
- Avoid irritants such as alcohol (including alcohol-containing mouth rinses), tobacco and caffeine
- Use a humidifier at night.
How can I avoid dental problems associated with dry mouth?
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth daily.
- Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and prevention of decay, fungal, or bacterial infections in the mouth.
If you have any concerns on your oral health or would want to see a dentist, please give us a call or book your appointment online.
