Dry mouth can be a significant factor in your dental health. It’s not just uncomfortable; it has adverse effects on your teeth and gums, as well. Anyone is vulnerable to developing dry mouth at some point, so here’s what you need to know about it.

What Is Dry Mouth?

When the salivary glands inside your jaw stop producing enough saliva to keep your mouth moist, the resulting condition is called dry mouth. Although it’s common as your body ages, it’s also a side effect of health issues like diabetes, cystic fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, anemia, or general nerve damage in your neck or head.

Drugs and medical procedures—such as chemotherapy, antidepressants, decongestants, muscle relaxants, and antihistamines—can also cause dry mouth. Of course, general dehydration can play a role, as well.

In addition to giving your mouth a dry, sticky, or burning sensation, it makes chewing and speaking more difficult. Your throat may also become sore, and your lips cracked. Your tongue may develop grooves and stop tasting food normally. Also, you may struggle with halitosis, or smelly breath. All these symptoms worsen if you also smoke or chew tobacco.

How Can It Affect Dental Health?

Saliva washes food particles out of your mouth, prevents fungal growth, and breaks down the bacterial acid that causes cavities. Without it, your teeth and gums are more vulnerable to decay and infection.

As a result, you become more prone to cavities, gingivitis, periodontitis, and yeast infections in the mouth. If you have dentures, dry mouth makes it difficult to wear them.

What Can You Do About It?

Try to stimulate saliva production with sugar-free gum or candies, as long as they’re nonacidic and contain xylitol. Also, use toothpastes and mouthwashes fortified with fluoride, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Those who smoke or chew tobacco should quit.

If medication causes your dry mouth, check with your doctor to see if they can reduce the dosage or prescribe something different altogether. In addition to treating any dental problems that arise due to the condition, your dentist can provide medication designed to increase saliva production.

For professional help treating dry mouth and other dental issues, contact Ronald W. Ristow, D.D.S., L.L.C., in Oconto Falls, WI. With more than 15 years of experience providing quality and affordable dental care to his community, he’s prepared to ensure that your mouth is in excellent condition. Call (920) 249-5938 to check appointment availability, and learn about the practice’s services online.