Dry Mouth and Dental Care

What you need to know about Dry Mouth

Dry Mouth has a number of causes:

• Medication (including many common prescriptions for blood pressure, depression, asthma, and other conditions)
• Diseases such as Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes, and Parkinson’s.
• Dehydration
• Smoking or using chewing tobacco

While most people will experience short bouts of dry mouth as a result of dehydration, chronic dry mouth can have a very negative effect on long term dental health.  Saliva is vitally important to controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. Without it, teeth decay more quickly and gum disease may develop.  If you have dry mouth, here are some tips to help prevent damage to your teeth and mouth.

• Stay hydrated!  Drinking plenty of H20 is great for your overall health and will keep your mouth moist.
• Stop smoking or using chewing tobacco.
• Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on a sugar-free hard candy can help with saliva production.
• If dry mouth is caused by medication, talk with your doctor about the dosage and possible alternatives.  Your doctor can also prescribe a medication to increase saliva production.

At Vacendak Dentristry, we look at more than just your teeth and gums; we look at your overall health. Schedule an appointment with us today. Call 757-609-3510.