Do You Have Dry Mouth?
Do you find yourself constantly thirsty, despite having a lot of water to drink? You may be experiencing dry mouth. This is a common side effect of certain diseases or medication, but it can be very uncomfortable. In addition to always feeling parched, your tongue may become cracked or swollen. Now having enough saliva may cause you to develop more serious problems like thrush, which inflames the gums and makes you more prone to developing gingivitis.
What Are the Causes of Dry Mouth?
There are many things that can reduce the saliva in your mouth, such as:
- Smoking and drinking. Using these substances on a regular basis will dry out your mouth quickly.
- Psychological problems. Mild dehydration, anxiety, pregnancy, and open-mouthed breathing are all considered normal causes of dry mouth since they can be easily remedied.
- Chronic diseases. Some diseases have been known to cause dry mouth, including sarcoidosis, diabetes, Hepatitis C, or Sjögren's disease.
- Medication. Dry mouth is listed as a side effect for over 100 drugs in the United States, such as Benadryl and Ibuprofen. The more of these you take, the higher your chances are for experiencing dry mouth.
In some cases, you may not be able to determine the exact cause. If you have a case of dry mouth but don't experience any of the contributing factors, it's best to speak with a qualified dentistabout treatment.
How Can I Prevent Dry Mouth?
Your best strategy is to focus on the root of the problem. This could mean adjusting your medication, cutting back on smoking, eating sugar-free products, and getting plenty of water. Artificial saliva substitutes are also a good option.
When to Call Our Office
When dry mouth is preventing you from enjoying your day-to-day life, it's time to see a dentist. At Marie Simon Dentistry, we are experts at diagnosing oral problems and helping develop a treatment plan that's right for you. If you're ready to get rid of dry mouth, contact ustoday!
