Everything You Need to Know About Dry Mouth

What is Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth - clinically known as xerostomia - is a condition in which the salivary glands are unable to produce enough saliva to maintain a healthy environment in the mouth.

Saliva naturally stabilizes and neutralizes the inside of the mouth, protecting the enamel of the teeth from harmful acids and helping to clean the surface of the teeth of food debris. When the salivary glands are unable to produce an adequate amount of saliva, the patient may experience the following dry mouth symptoms:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Difficulty swallowing and chewing
• Pain in the teeth and gums
• Speech difficulties
• Difficulty wearing dentures or other oral devices

What Causes Dry Mouth?

The common causes of dry mouth include:

• Smoking/tobacco use
• Prescription medications
• Chemotherapy
• Alcohol use
• Recreational drug use
• Diabetes
• Infected salivary glands
• HIV/AIDS
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Aging

The root cause of the development of dry mouth may vary from patient to patient. The cause of your dry mouth will determine how it will be treated.

How is Dry Mouth Treated?

In order to develop a treatment plan for your dry mouth, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination and review your medical history. Below are some common dry mouth treatment methods:

• If your dry mouth is a result of an infected salivary gland, you will be prescribed antibiotics to clear the infection.
• If your prescribed medications are the cause of your dry mouth, your dentist will work with your general doctor to see if a new medication can be administered in its place. 
• A mouthwash specially designed to treat dry mouth may be prescribed. 
• Medication to stimulate saliva production may be prescribed.
• If tobacco use is the root cause of your dry mouth, your dentist will strongly recommend that you quit using tobacco products as soon as possible.
• Limited caffeine intake will be recommended
• Limited intake of acidic or sugary foods and beverages will be recommended
• Your dentist may recommend sucking on sugar-free lozenges or chewing sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production

Depending on the cause of your dry mouth, your dentist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works best for you. Moving forward, your dentist will help you maintain a healthy oral environment with proper home care and regular check-up and cleanings appointments.

EZ Dental: Best Dentist in San Jose, CA

EZ Dental is proud to offer the most comprehensive and personable dental treatment in San Jose, CA. Our team of dental professionals will work hard to help you maintain the healthiest smile possible.

For more information about dry mouth or to get scheduled for an appointment in our San Jose dental office, give us a call at (408) 227-6000.

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