Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can be an irritating condition. Left untreated, more serious issues can present themselves. But how do you know if you have dry mouth and what can you do to treat it? Today, we’ll discuss some symptoms you should be watching out for and what treatment for dry mouth consists of.
What Is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is when you don’t produce enough saliva. Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of factors including, but not limited to, aging, medication, tobacco use, or a medical condition. Regardless of the reason you have dry mouth, it’s important to get treatment. Saliva is crucial in preventing tooth decay and washing away food, bacteria, and acid in your mouth. Here are some symptoms you can watch out for if you have dry mouth:
- Dryness
- Bad breath
- Lack of taste
- Thick saliva
- Sore throat.
If you have any combination of these symptoms for an extended period of time, it may be time to make an appointment with your dentist. They can determine the severity of the condition and whether further treatment is needed.
What Can I Do About It?
If you have dry mouth, it’s best to visit your dentist to discuss the best solution for you. You don’t want your dry mouth to cause more serious issues like decay and gum disease. Here are some things you may need to do in order to combat dry mouth:
- Rinse your mouth after eating, brush when possible
- Drink water often during the day
- Use alcohol-free mouthwash
- Chew sugar-free gum
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, sugar, and caffeine
- Check in with your dentist regularly.
If your dry mouth is persistent and serious enough, you may need to go to the doctor and get prescription medication. There are also some over-the-counter options that may be helpful. Talk to your dentist about it and they can help you with a treatment plan.
Schedule an Appointment with Parkcrest Dental Group
If you notice something off about your oral health, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your dentist to make sure it’s nothing serious. You can also prevent problems by going to get your biannual cleanings. Remember, a good daily routine is the best preventive measure. If you brush and floss twice a day, you’re much less likely to have issues! To schedule your next cleaning with Parkcrest Dental Group, contact us today.
