What is the Treatment for Dry Mouth?

Dry is great if you’re trying to stay out of the rain. Dry is not so great when you’re talking about something you eat. This is because the moist environment inside our mouths is not made for dryness. Unfortunately, many people do complain of a legitimate dental condition called dry mouth that lasts far beyond consuming a muffin that isn’t moist enough. Are you worried that you are experiencing chronic dry mouth symptoms?

Dry Mouth Symptoms

Some of the most frequently noted dry mouth symptoms include:

• A sticky dry feeling in your mouth
• Frequent, intense thirst
• Sores or lesions in your mouth or on your lips
• Split/cracked skin in the corners of your mouth
• A dry throat
• A burning or tingling sensation inside your mouth or on your tongue
• A red, raw tongue
• Difficulty speaking, tasting, chewing, and swallowing
• Hoarseness, sore throat, or dried out nasal passages
• Halitosis (Chronic bad breath)

What Causes Dry Mouth?

Of course, everyone’s mouth is dry sometimes, but if you have any of these symptoms on a consistent basis, you may have dry mouth.Dry mouth is medically termed xerostomia. The condition occurs when you don’t produce enough saliva in your mouth. Several factors (including stress, medications, cancer treatments, hormonal changes, medical conditions, snoring, allergy congestion, and open-mouthed breathing) can cause this condition. Beyond the general discomfort of dry mouth, xerostomia can lead to tooth decay. Your saliva helps to re-strengthen your tooth enamel and rinse food debris and acid from your mouth after eating and drinking.

Treating Dry Mouth

If you suffer from dry mouth, try the following:

• Drink more water and avoid acidic beverages
• Avoid irritants (such as alcohol, tobacco products, and caffeine)
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy to stimulate salivary production
• Avoid spicy or high sodium foods
• Run a humidifier when you sleep
• Consider using salivary substitutes, rinses, or treatments. Dr. Allen can advise you when you visit for a consultation.

Visit your Pella Dentist

Dr. Jeffrey Allen is a family dentist in Pella, Iowa, and understands the severity of dry mouth and other oral health problems. Serving families in Pella, Oskaloosa, Lynnville, and the surrounding areas, Dr. Allen provides his patients with quality, family dental care. Call (641) 628-1121 to reserve an appointment.