Dry mouth
.
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is medically known as xerostomia, a condition in which there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva plays a key role in our oral health, since it helps prevent tooth decay and keep our mouth and gums healthy, so dry mouth can be a serious problem.
Types
There are two types of dry mouth:
- Primary dry mouth: This is when there is no underlying cause, although it is usually seen in people over age 65. Primary dry mouth is a normal side effect of the aging process.
- Secondary dry mouth: This condition is caused by an underlying health problem, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, stroke, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, tuberculosis and Sjogren's syndrome.
Causes
Primary dry mouth is caused by the body's natural process of aging, as the salivary glands become less efficient with age. Secondary dry mouth is caused by a variety of medical conditions and treatments.
Risks
Dry mouth can be a serious problem because saliva is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth, and low saliva levels can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dry mouth include:
- A dry, sticky feeling in the mouth
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- A burning sensation in the mouth
Diagnosis and Treatment
Dry mouth can often be diagnosed through a physical examination of your mouth and a review of your medical history. Treatment options for dry mouth include:
- Increasing fluid intake and avoiding beverages that can cause dehydration, such as alcohol and caffeine.
- Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva production.
- Using saliva substitutes, such as mouth sprays or gels.
- Using a humidifier in the bedroom to keep the air moist.
Precautions
To help reduce the risk of dry mouth, it is important to:
- Avoid using alcohol or tobacco.
- Avoid taking medications that can cause dry mouth.
- Regularly brush and floss to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
