How to Prevent Dry Mouth Dry mouth... it's a term you've likely been hearing a lot more these days than ever before. But why? Dry mouth is something anyone can experience, so it's probably pretty safe to say it's been around forever. So why are hearing more about it now than in the past? The fact is that dry mouth is something we're all hearing more about these days due to several factors, not the least of which is medication use. Many medications, especially when taken on a regular basis, can lead to dry mouth. And, though it doesn't sound like such a bad thing, the fact is it can be pretty serious. The problem with dry mouth is that it can lead to health conditions, and it can also be a sign that you've already got one. Top dentists in Clearwater recommend following some of the following tips for preventing dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause a number of problems for those who suffer from it. If you find you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have chronic dry mouth. • • • •
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Difficulty chewing Chronic sore throats Difficulty speaking Difficulty swallowing food, also known as food sticking Burning sensation in the mouth
Dry nasal passages Chronic or recurring hoarseness
It's also important to note that denture wearers may be particularly prone to dry mouth. If this is the case, wearing dentures can become a problem where the once was none. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms on this list, especially if you're a denture wearer, don't take these symptoms lightly, as dry mouth can lead to more serious issues, including mouth infections as well as health conditions involving the esophagus. Causes of dry mouth can include: • • • •
Medications, especially those for blood pressure, overactive bladder, Parkinson disease, and anxiety Muscle relaxers Decongestants Antihistamines
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Medical conditions such as diabetes, clinical depression, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, Sjogren's syndrome Stress, anxiety, and/or depression
Preventing dry mouth doesn't take a whole lot of doing, even if you're someone who takes regular medications. First, you need to talk to your doctor if you're experiencing dry mouth and any of its accompanying symptoms. Dry mouth generally does not go away on its own, but there are things you can do to prevent it from recurring. These include: •
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Proper oral hygiene routine that includes twice-daily brushing and at least oncedaily flossing. Keep on hand plenty of sugarless gum or sugarless mints at all times. These help to stimulate production of saliva in the mouth, which helps to wash away bad bacteria as well as keep the mouth well hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Experts agree that drinking 8 glasses of water per day is a minimum needed for keeping the body, and that also includes the mouth, well hydrated. Avoid eating sticky or processed foods. When choosing snacks, try water-based fruits and vegetables such as watermelon and celery. Talk to your physician about all of your medications and the side effect of dry mouth. Those that are contributors typically are well known to doctors. Ask if there are any substitutes. If there aren't, ask your physician for additional actions to take to prevent dry mouth. Talk to a family dentist. Dentists are experts in matters of the mouth. On your next bi-annual checkup, be sure to let your dentist know you're suffering from dry mouth and ask if there are additional things you can do to prevent it.
The bad news about dry mouth is that drinking a glass of water might not be enough to prevent it. The good news is that it is largely preventable. There are steps you can take to prevent dry mouth. There are a number of reasons a person can be suffering from the effects of dry mouth. That's why it's important to take a look at the causes and discover the reasons you may be a sufferer. Do you take regular medications? If you answered yes
to this question, your medications may be the cause of your dry mouth. But don't stop taking your medications; simply talk to your doctor about your symptoms in order to come up with a solution. Your doctor may be able to prescribe an alternative medication that won't cause this symptom. If you're a smoker, this may be a significant contributor to your dry mouth. Whatever the cause, it's important that you do what you can to remain properly hydrated at all times. For more information about dry mouth, its possible causes and potential effects, schedule a consultation with a dentist to have all your questions answered.