Most people experience dry mouth at some point due to nervousness or dehydration, which is normal. But if the dry mouth persists, it could be that you have a medical condition known as xerostomia. If this condition persists, it could result in you having difficulties eating, digesting your food, or even speaking.
Though often taken for granted, saliva plays a vital role in oral health. If you do not have enough saliva, it will lead to a dry mouth condition and several infections, like halitosis, dry lips, and mouth soreness. On the other hand, inadequate saliva could also cause tooth decay and gum disease. That is why if you have a dry mouth condition, then you need to visit a dentist who will help you manage the condition before it escalates.
A Look at Reasons You Have Dry Mouth
- Saliva Glands Not Functioning
When you are dehydrated or anxious, your salivary glands will not produce adequate saliva in your mouth. Thus, this will lead to you having a dry mouth. But such situations are short-term, and your salivary glands should work as soon as you hydrate or relax.
- Illness And Medicines
If you are sick or are taking medication, you can also get xerostomia. Drugs like diuretics and antidepressants are common causes of such conditions. That is why, before taking any drugs, you should review the side effects and also see the description.
- Radiotherapy
When you undergo radiotherapy, your salivary glands might expand, and that might lead to you having a dry mouth.
- Blocked Nose
When people experience a blocked nose, they usually use their mouths for breathing. However, breathing through the mouth for a long time will lead to a dry mouth.
It does not matter the cause; if you have experienced a dry mouth for a long time, you should not hesitate to see a dentist. The doctor will examine you and choose the best possible solution for your condition.
Treating Dry Mouth
You cannot treat your dry mouth without determining the cause of the problem. Therefore, treating dry mouth will focus on the following areas:
- Dealing or treating the condition that is causing the dry mouth
- Preventing decay of the teeth
- Finding ways to increase the flow of saliva
- Changing medication that might be causing you to have a dry mouth
How to Manage Dry Mouth
If you have a dry mouth, learn ways to improve the condition and make it better.
- Stay Hydrated: The chances are you have a dry mouth since you are not hydrated. But if you drink ample water, then your salivary glands will start producing saliva automatically.
- Avoid: Dry foods, foods with a lot of salt and caffeine, beverages with high sugar content, smoking, and alcohol. You should also not use mouthwash that contains alcohol or peroxide.
- Use: saliva stimulants; consume soft meals.
Conclusion
Having a dry mouth might seem like a minor issue, but its effects can be devastating. That is why if you have this condition, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible. The professional will know the best way to deal with the situation once and for all.
Contact HPS Advanced Dental Care in Shelby Township, MI
If you have any inquiries about dental health-related topics, please contact HPS Advanced Dental Care in Shelby Township. Our team is ready to support your journey towards a healthier and brighter smile; oral health is our number one concern, and we want to help you make the best decisions based on individual requirements. Reach out now.
