2 reviews

General dentist in Beaufort, SC

17A Marshellen Dr, Beaufort, SC 29902

Closed today
Opens Monday at 8:00am

SundayClosed

Monday8:00am - 5:00pm

Tuesday8:00am - 5:00pm

Wednesday8:00am - 5:00pm

Thursday8:00am - 5:00pm

FridayClosed

SaturdayClosed

Aaron M. Bliley, DMD, LLC - General dentist in Beaufort, SC

Everybody gets a dry mouth from time to time. Temporary mouth dryness can be brought on by dehydration, stress, or simply the normal reduction in saliva flow at night. But persistent mouth dryness, a condition known as xerostomia, is cause for concern.

Xerostomia occurs when your salivary glands, which normally keep your mouth moist by secreting saliva, are not working properly. A chronic lack of saliva has significant health implications. For one thing, it can be difficult to eat with a dry mouth; tasting, chewing and swallowing may also be affected. This could compromise your nutrition. Also, a dry mouth creates ideal conditions for tooth decay. Thats because saliva plays a very important role in keeping decay-causing oral bacteria in check and neutralizing the acids these bacteria produce; it is the acid in your mouth that erodes tooth enamel and starts the decay process. A dry mouth can also cause bad breath.

Medications. For most people suffering from dry mouth, medications are to blame. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, there are more than 500 medications (both prescription and over-the-counter) that have this side effect. Antihistamines (for allergies), diuretics (which drain excess fluid), and antidepressants, are high on the list of medications that cause xerostomia. Chemotherapy drugs can also have this effect.

Disease. Some systemic (general body) diseases can cause dry mouth. Sjgrens syndrome, for example, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own moisture-producing glands in the eyes and mouth. Other diseases known to cause dry mouth include diabetes, Parkinsons disease, cystic fibrosis and AIDS.

If you are taking any medication regularly, its possible that your physician can either suggest a substitute or adjust the dosage to relieve your symptoms of dry mouth. If this is not possible or has already been tried, here are some other things you can do:

Sip fluids frequently. This is particularly helpful during meals. Make sure what you drink does not contain sugar and isnt acidic, as these will both increase your risk of tooth decay. All sodas, including diet varieties, should be avoided, as they are acidic and attack the tooth surface.

Chew sugarless gum. This will help stimulate saliva flow if your salivary glands are not damaged. Choose a variety that contains xylitol, a natural sugar substitute that can be protective against tooth decay.

Have an exam/cleaning. If you have dry mouth, its more important than ever to maintain your regular schedule of visits to the dental office. Please be sure to let us know what medications you are taking, particularly if there have been any changes recently. We will do our best to help relieve any dry-mouth symptoms you are experiencing.

Dry Mouth Dry mouth, caused by insufficient saliva flow, is more than a minor annoyance to the millions who suffer from it. Thats because saliva helps maintain oral health in a variety of ways. If your mouth is persistently dry, heres what you should know Read Article

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Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 reviews

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Michel Berda
a year ago
I write very few 5 stars reviews lately. I should know about reviews as I am one of the most decorated reviewed wedding photographers in Charleston, SC. I leave positive reviews when I can share my amazing experience and how a future client can get my perspective on why I feel so positive about Mr. Bliley & his very nice team. I drove all the way from Charleston, SC to see Mr. Bliley. I have to start by saying turning 60 soon, I have NOT taken care of my teeth. This being said I have had lots of problems with them and this had led to many unfortunate situations for me. So being ashamed of my teeth and embarrassed it was really hard to make this appointment. This being said it was not that bad of a drive to their very nice office I was introduced to the lovely team and then Doc came in. They were very thorough in the X-rays, and then I stood there waiting to get the bad news. To my surprise, I knew immediately that Mr. Bliley was a true professional and very caring. He was diligent in his approach and his delivery of it all. It could not have been better he explained everything and gave me 3 options and in the current stage that my teeth are on how to best proceed. Finding a great business like this is so hard to find. I know GenX & Millenniums in today's terminology call this an experience. This is a great and caring dentistry practice that wants you to be comfortable and educated about your teeth. This practice erases all of the I do not want to go to the dentist theory. I will return without question as I booked the second appointment and I am no longer nervous but very happy. This is everything to me. Thank you to the dental team & Mr. Bliley you all are too great.

Kristie Wallace
5 years ago
An excellent dentist!! Highly recommend. He is professional, honest, and demonstrates quality care. His staff and hygienists are pleasant. Every cleaning and treatment has been pain-free!

Maximilian Saunders
7 years ago
I have had alot of bad dentists over the years, but this isn't one. I live in Bluffton but drive to Beaufort to go here because it's the only place I've found locally that makes me feel like I'm working with a competent doctor who cares. The rest of the staff is also lovely.

Find the best dentist in: South Carolina / Beaufort County / Beaufort / 29902

Aaron M. Bliley, DMD, LLC

Reviews

Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 reviews