Dry mouth, another name for xerostomia (zeer-o-STOE-me-uh), is the result of several conditions or factors. Some people with anxiety can experience dry mouth. When dry mouth occurs as the result of a temporary condition, the salivary glands in the mouth do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This condition can be the side effect of many prescription medications, aging problems, or as a result of radiation therapy for cancer. Less often, dry mouth can be the result of a direct condition affecting the salivary glands.

Dry mouth can lead to oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease so it’s important to talk to you dentist if you are experiencing it.

By neutralizing acids created by bacteria, the salivary glands produce saliva to help prevent tooth decay. Saliva helps to reduce bacterial growth and washes away food particles. Saliva helps with tasting, chewing, and swallowing food. Enzymes contained in saliva help to digest food.

Dry mouth affects many people and is a constant nuisance for them. For some people, it is only an occasional problem. But for others, it is a constant daily problem. Dry mouth can affect a person’s general health and the health of their teeth and gums. Dry mouth affects a person’s appetite. People with a dry mouth condition report that they experience less enjoyment eating food.

The treatment for a dry mouth condition depends upon the cause of the condition. Depending upon a person’s general health coupled with the cause of the dry mouth condition, symptoms and cures will vary with each person. If dry mouth is more than an occasional problem, consult with a physician or dentist for treatment options. Reduction of saliva production, or dry mouth, can have the symptoms and signs shown below.

Stickiness or dryness of the mouth and bad breath can be the result of dry mouth.
Thick and stringy saliva can occur in some people.
The difficulty with swallowing, chewing, or speaking can be caused by dry mouth.
A sore throat and hoarseness, dry or grooved tongue and dry nasal passages are all possible symptoms.
For some people, there can be a change in the sense of taste and smell.
The tingling sensation of the tongue or mouth is sometimes a symptom of dry mouth.
Wearing dentures can be difficult with a dry mouth condition.
Lipstick will stick to teeth as a result of the condition of dry mouth.

Symptoms and cures for a dry mouth condition will vary with each person. The condition is lessened or goes away after radiation therapy is finished. For some people after a course of treatment using certain medicines is finished, then, the dry mouth condition will go away.

Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can help with saliva production. In addition, using an artificial saliva product can help with saliva production. Drink small sips of water, use ice chips, and use an alcohol-free mouth rinse.

In any case, it is always wise to call you dentist if you are experiencing dry mouth for a prolonged period of time or if it out of the ordinary for you. A dentist can help find the source to the problem and help you manage your symptoms as well as keep your mouth healthy.

If you are experiencing dry mouth or have any other dental concerns, Dr. Sedki can help. Sedki Dentistry located in Commerce MI is a complete family dental clinic that offers services for all dental health concerns. Dr. Sedki is an experienced dentist, helping patients improve their smiles for over 15 years and is the perfect choice for all of your dental needs. At Sedki Dentistry our experienced staff is professional and committed to the uncompromised care to each of our patients. Call today for a Free Dental Consult!