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 and 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 and 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 and limiting the salt, sugar and 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 and help you treat it.
We pride ourselves on taking the time to listen and get to know each patient as an individual. The entire team at Brooks Road Dental Care looks forward to seeing you soon and developing a relationship with you to build the bridge toward long-term trust and successful dental care. See why our patients cant stop smiling!
Our exceptional, friendly staff is our greatest asset. All of our dental assistants and hygienists are licensed professionals who pride themselves on their current dental techniques and outstanding patient communication. With unmatched quality and integrity, they are dedicated to achieving the best possible results for you and your family.
Since your comfort and health are our top priorities, Brooks Road Dental Cares staff is glad to assist you in any way. If you have any questions at all, from treatment options and sterilization to insurance concerns and paperwork, were here for you! We can assure you that youll enjoy your dental visit!
Dr. Himel maintains a tradition of trusted dental care in Windsor. A top graduate of the Emory University School of Dentistry, he regularly attends courses on the newest techniques and advances to provide you high-quality, personalized care. Dr. Himel has completed advanced courses in aesthetic dentistry, fixed and removable prosthetics, root canals, braces, headache relief, and treatment for medically compromised patients. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Redwood Empire Dental Society.
