Dry mouth or xerostomia is a condition that happens when your mouth doesn’t produce as much saliva as it should. Saliva is vital for the breakdown of food, and it also provides a natural defense against tooth decay and gum disease.
When the production of saliva decreases, it can cause problems for your oral health. It can be uncomfortable and cause difficulty chewing or speaking.
What causes dry mouth?
There can be various reasons that lead to dry mouth including:.
1. Medications
Dry mouth is a common symptom of many prescription and non-prescription medications. More than 400 medications list dry mouth as a side effect, including drugs for high blood pressure, depression, anxiety, allergies, and colds.
Make sure to read the labels or check with your doctor beforehand if the medication can cause dry mouth.
2. Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, Sjögren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease can cause dry mouth. These medical conditions lead to a decrease in the production of saliva.
3. Dehydration
Dehydration can cause a decreased production of saliva leading to dry mouth. It is essential to drink enough fluids especially during hot weather, strenuous exercise, or when you are ill.
4. Mouth Breathing
When you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, your mouth becomes dry. It can happen due to a stuffy nose, enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
5. Nerve damage
Nerve damage to the neck or head region can lead to dry mouth.
How to alleviate dry mouth?
There are several things you can do to alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth, including:.
1. Drink more water
Adequate water intake helps produce saliva and keeps the mouth moist. Try to drink water frequently throughout the day.
2. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy
Sugar-free gum or candy stimulates saliva production, which can alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
3. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
These substances can all contribute to dehydration and make the symptoms of dry mouth worse.
4. Use a humidifier
Dry air can also cause dry mouth. A humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can help alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth.
5. Consult your doctor
If you think the dry mouth is a side effect of any medication you are taking or due to a medical condition, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your medication or provide treatment for the underlying medical condition.
6. Avoid sugary and acidic food and beverages
Sugary and acidic food and beverages increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. They also exacerbate dry mouth symptoms and can lead to discomfort.
7. Use saliva substitutes
Saliva substitutes are products designed to mimic natural saliva. You can find them in the form of a spray, gel, or lozenge, and they can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
8. Practice good oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to maintain good oral health. This practice is essential for people with dry mouth as it prevents tooth decay and gum disease.
9. Avoid mouthwash with alcohol
Mouthwash with alcohol can dry out your mouth even more. Use an alcohol-free mouthwash, which can help alleviate symptoms of dry mouth.
Conclusion
Dry mouth can be an uncomfortable and frustrating condition. Understanding the causes of dry mouth can help with effective treatment. You can try various methods to alleviate dry mouth symptoms and improve your oral health.
