We all need saliva to moisten and cleanse our mouths and digest food. Saliva also prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. When we don’t produce enough saliva, our mouth gets dry and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for dry mouth. Unfortunately, many people with this problem are not fully aware of it until Dr. Powell detects the damage it causes to your teeth.
There are many causes of xerostomia. Some medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, prescription and non-prescription. Common drugs which can cause dry mouth are to treat depression, pain, allergies, colds, asthma, hypertension and more. Some cancer treatments, smoking, dehydration, and nerve damage can cause xerostomia as well. Dr. Powell or your hygienist will consider your medications at your office visit for this possibility.
Dry mouth is a problem because it increases a person’s risk of gingivitis, tooth decay, and mouth infections. Denture wearers also have problems if battling dry mouth. At Asheville Dental Care we have a variety of different products you can try to see which you like best!
Some ways you can overcome dry mouth is :
- Drink plenty of water
- Brush with a fluoride toothpaste
- Use fluoride rinse
- Maintain regular visits to you dentist
- Use over the counter saliva replacements (ex:Biotene products)
