Despite being uncomfortable, dry mouth alone is not a severe issue as long as it is not persistent. If it is, it can lead to various long-term health issues, ranging from irritating to dangerous. Someone who suffers from chronic dry mouth will likely experience mouth sores, splits at the corners of the mouth, cracked lips, increased plaque buildup & a greater risk of tooth decay & gum disease. You might even start to have nutrition issues, because the lack of saliva makes it more difficult to break down food when you eat.
Even if your dry mouth does not seem to be persistent, it is important to stay on top of treating it. The good news is that treatment is simple for most cases of dry mouth. First, make sure you stay hydrated by sipping on water throughout the day. For your dental & overall health, you should drink lots of water anyway! Dehydration, which dry mouth can be a sign of, is a serious health risk.
Other simple things you can do to treat dry mouth include chewing sugarless gum & limiting the salt, sugar & caffeinated drinks in your diet. Some people might recommend sucking on an ice cube or sugarless hard candy, but this can actually damage your teeth, so dont do it! You can also purchase nonprescription saliva substitutes over the counter to reduce your current issues.
If you use tobacco or drink alcohol, cut back on those or find a way to quit. Even if you dont think smoking or drinking is the root cause, those activities can irritate a dry mouth, so you should limit or stop them entirely. Plus, theyre just bad for you!
The best treatment for dry mouth always depends on the specific cause, so if home remedies or over-the-counter solutions dont prevent your dry mouth, it can indicate a more serious underlying health issue. In serious cases it is best to visit a physician or dentist who can work with you to figure out the root cause of your dry mouth & help you treat it.
We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen & get to know each patient as an individual. The entire team at Brandon Complete Dental Care looks forward to seeing you soon & developing a relationship with you to build the bridge toward long-term trust & successful dental care. See why our patients cant stop smiling!
Our exceptional, friendly staff is our greatest asset. All of our dental assistants & hygienists are licensed professionals who pride themselves on their current dental techniques & outstanding patient communication. With unmatched quality & integrity, they are dedicated to achieving the best possible results for you & your family.
Since your comfort & health are our top priorities, Brandon Complete Dental Cares staff is glad to assist you in any way. If you have any questions at all, from treatment options & sterilization to insurance concerns & paperwork, were here for you! We can assure you that youll enjoy your dental visit!
A graduate of the University of Western Ontario (Canada) & the College of Dentistry, Baylor University (Texas), Dr. Assing interned alongside skilled professionals at Yale University School of Medicine. He established his practice first in San Antonio, Texas, then relocated to Brandon in 1986. Dr. Assings professional affiliations include Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Orthodontic Society, & the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is also a member of the American Academy of Complete Dentistry & the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Dr. Assing is a Diplomat of the American Board of Oral Implantology. Notably, he has graduated from the elite MISCH Implant Institute at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Assing is married & has two sons. Hes active in the Brandon community & sponsor of local soccer teams.
Dr. Brenton was raised in Brandon, FL. He attended Durant High School, graduating in 2004. Dr. Brenton went on to attend the University of Florida, graduating in 2008 with a bachelors degree in Food Science & Human Nutrition & Nutritional Sciences. Dr. Brenton attended the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery at the University of Maryland Dental School & received his DDS degree in 2012. He furthered his education and completed a three year specialty residency at the Michael DeBakey VA Medical Center and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he was awarded a specialty certificate in Advanced Prosthodontics.
Dr. Brenton is excited to join his father Dr. Assing in practice here in Brandon, FL. He is constantly updating his knowledge through continuing education & is actively pursuing his fellowship in the American College of Prosthodontists.