Dry Mouth Causes and Treatments
Dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia is a condition that can be bothersome as well as painful. In some cases, Xerostomia may even make your mouth feel as if it were on fire. There are many different reasons why people develop dry mouth problems, and knowing how to manage them effectively can limit the amount of discomfort that you suffer from the condition.
Over the Counter and Prescription Medications
If you read the side effects on any medication, there’s a good chance that “dry mouth” will be one of them. Dry mouth symptoms are especially common with medications like antihistamines and antidepressants.
Radiation Treatments
During cancer therapy, radiation treatments can cause destruction of salivary glands. As a result, your body no longer makes the necessary lubricant for your mouth. In most cases, that salivary function does not return.
Sjögren’s Syndrome
Although Sjögren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder, one of its most predominant symptoms is the destruction of glands that produce saliva and tears. Nearly all patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome suffer from xerostomia.
Other Medical Conditions
Certain types of medical conditions may also cause dry mouth – such as diabetes, anemia, or hypertension. These are just a few examples of your body trying to tell you that something is wrong.
Knowing that you have dry mouth is important – it allows you to take proactive measures to combat symptoms of the condition. Otherwise, most people with dry mouth will develop a severe increase in the amount of tooth decay present (due to lack of lubrication inside of the mouth.)
Dr. Matthew will most likely prescribe a prescription strength fluoride for optimal tooth remineralization. This prevents dry teeth from becoming demineralized and susceptible to acids inside of the mouth.
It’s natural to have a dryer mouth when you wake up in the morning, but if saliva flow does not improve throughout the next hour or so, it’s time to call Dr. Matthew for a dental exam.
