Most people have experienced the annoying sensation of dry mouth.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands in your mouth don't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist.
Saliva is essential for oral health as it helps break down food, washes away bacteria, and prevents cavities.
While occasional dry mouth is common, if you're constantly dealing with this issue, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition and should be addressed.
Causes of Dry Mouth
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Medications: Many medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and decongestants.
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Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS can affect the salivary glands and lead to dry mouth.
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Lifestyle: Dehydration, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to dry mouth.
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Radiation therapy: Radiation to the head and neck area can damage salivary glands, causing them to produce less saliva.
Signs and Symptoms of Dry Mouth
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Feeling a dry, sticky sensation in the mouth
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Difficulty speaking or swallowing
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Burning or tingling in the mouth
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A change in taste
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Increased tooth decay and gum disease
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Sore throat
When to See a Dentist
While occasional dry mouth may not be cause for alarm, it's essential to see our dentists if you are experiencing persistent dry mouth, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like pain or burning in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or if it interferes with your daily activities.
Our dentists will perform an examination to identify the underlying cause of your dry mouth. They might need to take x-rays or request blood tests.
Depending on the cause, our dentists will recommend the appropriate treatment plan.
How to Manage Dry Mouth
There are steps you can take at home to help manage and alleviate dry mouth symptoms:
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
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Avoid Dehydrating Beverages: Limit caffeine and alcohol intake as these can worsen dry mouth.
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Suck on Sugar-Free Lozenges or Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Stimulating saliva production can help alleviate dryness.
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Use a Saliva Substitute: Over-the-counter saliva substitutes can provide temporary relief.
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Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly and see our dentists for routine cleanings and check-ups.
If your dry mouth is caused by medication, talk to your doctor about alternative options or dosage adjustments. If you're experiencing dry mouth, don't ignore it.
Talk to our dentists to determine the cause and find ways to manage the symptoms effectively.
Most people have experienced the annoying sensation of dry mouth. 
