Dry mouth is a very common occurrence in adults and can be caused by several different factors. Dry mouth has a variety of symptoms and can cause complications to your oral health including periodontal disease, mouth infections, and tooth decay. Dr. Robert Petrtyl, a dentist based in Cincinnati, OH, offers dental services including restorative dentistry, gum disease treatment, and routine teeth cleanings and checkups. He says that preventing dry mouth is very important to your oral health.

In order to treat dry mouth, you must first determine if you suffer from it. Some symptoms of dry mouth include:

• Frequent Thirst
• Cracked Lips & Sores In The Mouth
• A Burning Sensation On The Tongue
• Bad Breath
• Hoarseness & A Sore Throat
• A Sticky, Dry Feeling In The Mouth

Dry mouth can be caused by many factors. It is a side effect of certain medications, such as muscle relaxants, sedatives, and drugs used to treat allergies and anxiety. Medical treatments like chemotherapy can also increase the development of dry mouth. Certain lifestyle choices, such as smoking and tobacco use, can deprive the mouth's ability to produce saliva and aggravate the symptoms of dry mouth. One of the most common causes of dry mouth, however, is dehydration. Your body needs water to function properly, and without a sufficient amount of it, your entire body, including your salivary glands, will struggle to perform.

If you suffer from dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe an oral rinse to restore mouth moisture. You can also suck on sugar-free candy, drink plenty of water, and add a humidifier to your home to help increase the moisture in your mouth.

Do you think you may have dry mouth? If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to visit your dentist to address how to best treat your mouth. Dr. Robert Petrtyl would be happy to address any concerns you may have about your oral health. To make an appointment, call (513) 554-4657 today, and to learn more about his practice, visit his website.