How to Treat Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is more than just an inconvenience. It can actually make dental problems worse if the dry mouth goes untreated. Our Boston cosmetic dentist and the entire team at the office thinks it’s important that we address this dental problem since it’s one that people take for granted. Below, we’ll look at issues concerning dry mouth and how dry mouth can be remedied.
Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia. In general, it involves a slowed or limited production of saliva in the mouth. This may be due to dehydration or anxiety, or it can be caused by issues with the salivary glands in the mouth. If your mouth is dry, it can accelerate tooth decay, cause bad breath, and make it difficult to speak and eat.
One good way to avoid dry mouth is to keep hydrated throughout the day. Be sure to drinks a few glasses of water each day to help maintain a good level of moisture in the mouth. It’s also a good idea to swish some of that water around in your mouth before swallowing if your mouth feels dry.
Another good way to avoid dry mouth is to reduce your consumption of alcoholic beverages and to not smoke. Both can cause bad breath (among other issues). If you do have a few drinks, it’s a good idea to have a glass of water between beverages to keep your mouth moist.
Chewing gum and candy can help produce some moisture in the mouth, which is very helpful. Be sure, though, that you get sugar-free chewing gum and candy so you can prevent tooth decay while keeping your mouth good and moist.
If none of these other options listed work, there are artificial salvia products that you can purchase at the store. These may come in spray form, gel form, or lozenge form and will help make your mouth moist while replenishing the minerals in your mouth that saliva would administer.
For more information on treating dry mouth as well as other dental care issues such as Boston teeth whitening, it’s important that you visit our office. During a consultation, we’ll be able to discuss these matters in much greater detail. To schedule an appointment, contact our Boston cosmetic dentistry office today.
