Is Dry Mouth A Minor Annoyance or A Serious Problem?
Dry mouth can be either a minor annoyance or a serious problem. Most everyone experiences the sensation at one point or another, and we all know how uncomfortable and awkward it feels. Your tongue may feel trapped or almost sticky, and it can even feel as though it’s hard to breathe! But beyond the temporary inconvenience, saliva plays a crucial role in your mouth. By keeping teeth, tongue, and other tissues lubricated, it protects them from bacteria.
When a lack of saliva becomes a chronic condition (known as xerostomia), teeth are left exposed to the air and become more prone to cavities.
What causes dry mouth?
The exact cause of the condition may be challenging to determine and may be due to a combination of several factors. Most commonly, it merely means that you’re a bit dehydrated. So, make sure to drink plenty of water, not soda or alcohol.
Dry mouth may also be a side effect of prescribed medications, so it’s essential to list all medications you are taking, and to be aware of these possible oral health implications!
What are the treatments?
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you wake up in the middle of the night with dry mouth, you can brush your teeth again to stimulate saliva production. Also, consider keeping a glass of water on your bedside table. You even might be snoring or sleeping with your mouth open, so keep in mind the other possible implications of snoring and sleep apnea. We may recommend an oral device for use during nighttime hours.
If you suffer from chronic dry mouth, contact us to discuss your condition. There may be prescription medications or mouth rinses available to alleviate your discomfort. We can also provide an examination to make sure your teeth aren’t showing any signs of early decay. Contact us today at (510) 233-4470.
