Does your mouth ever feel like all the moisture has left the building? That sticky, uncomfortable feeling, sometimes called cotton mouth, signifies an issue that can promote cavities and gum disease. Officially, we call the condition of having a persistent, clinically dry mouth “xerostomia,” and the dentists at Miracle Dental can help.
The mouth is a portal to the whole body, all the internal systems. Too little saliva (dry mouth) creates an environment of fast-growing bacteria that’s prime for the development of gum disease. Saliva is a natural defense tool; it keeps bad bacteria, plaque, and tartar from developing so quickly by rinsing the mouth constantly. Dry mouth overwhelms the immune response, which can lead to chronic inflammation of the gums–gum disease. Let’s talk about your experience with dry mouth and find a solution. Call Miracle Dental today at (702) 456-0056 to schedule your appointment.
Causes of Dry Mouth
Dry climates, like ours here in Las Vegas, can contribute to dehydration, which may lead to dry mouth.
Dry mouth is also a side effect of many types of medications. Particular medical conditions and treatments increase the risk of dry mouth, as well, including diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, and radiation therapy.
Some people breathe through their mouths, rather than their noses. This group, whom we call mouth breathers, often struggles with dry mouth.
As we age, a decrease in saliva production is expected. About 25% of people develop dry mouth around age 50, while by age 75 the number increases to between 53-61%.
Lastly, chronic stress increases the risk for developing xerostomia.
More Than Just Annoying
Saliva contains proteins, enzymes, minerals, buffers, and immune factors that help keep the oral environment clean and healthy. It keeps teeth mineralized and strong, too. Without saliva, here’s what happens:
- Cavities form faster
- Halitosis (bad breath) increases
- Gums become irritated; increased gum disease risk
- Tongue and cheek interiors may crack and swell
- The sense of taste can fail, or the taste of metal may occur
- Swallowing becomes difficult
- Fungal infections are more common
How Miracle Dental Can Help
So what can you do about dry mouth? Come see us! We will address the dry mouth, then we can help protect your oral tissues and restore any damage caused by the lack of saliva. Treatment often involves using a saliva substitute or prescription-grade mouthwash. In Nevada, we also recommend using a home humidifier to moisten the air.
Additionally, bring a list of all your current medications and treatments to your appointment. We can identify meds or treatments that cause dry mouth. Then you can discuss alternative medications with your physician.
To protect your teeth against cavities, a professional fluoride treatment can help your enamel stay strong. We often perform fluoride treatments after dental cleanings.
If you’re a mouth breather, or if you clench and grind your teeth at night (bruxing), and you struggle with xerostomia, let’s chat! For some patients, addressing TMJ disorder and the breath pathway reduces or alleviates dry mouth. We offer custom nightguards to treat both TMJ and bruxism.
Tips for Relief at Home
- Drink water All. Day. Long.
- Don’t use oral health products containing alcohol
- Chew sugar-free gum or mints that contain xylitol, a sweetener with dental health benefits
- Avoid salty foods and enjoy more moist foods
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom
- Limit caffeine, alcohol, and smoking
- Keep an artificial saliva product like Biotene on hand
Schedule Your Dental Appointment in Las Vegas
If persistent dry mouth plagues you, your mouth develops a burning sensation, or swallowing becomes a struggle, we invite you to call Miracle Dental, at (702) 456-0056 to schedule a checkup or consultation with one of our respected, experienced female dentists.
