When does Chronic Dry Mouth Occur?
Saliva is required to digest our food, clean our mouths and prevent infection by controlling bacteria and fungi. When a person does not produce enough saliva regularly this condition is referred to as chronic dry mouth. Luckily, your Springfield dentist can over many solutions for this condition.
What Causes Chronic Dry Mouth?
There are a number of factors that can cause this condition such as:
- Side effects from certain medications
- Side effects from specific diseases
- Side effects from medical treatments
- Nerve damage
- Dehydration
- Surgical removal of the salivary glands
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Breathing frequently through an open mouth
What are the Signs of Chronic Dry Mouth?
Symptoms of this condition include:
- A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
- Persistent thirst
- Sores in the mouth, cracked lips or split skin at the corners of the mouth
- A dry throat
- A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, especially on the tongue
- A dry, red, raw tongue
- Problems speaking or trouble tasting, chewing or swallowing
- Horseness, dry nasal passages and a sore throat
- Bad breath
How is Chronic Dry Mouth Treated?
This condition does increase the risk of gingivitis, tooth decay and mouth infections. Speak with your Springfield dentist if you show any signs. If you are on medication it may be suggested you switch to another prescription and your Springfield dentist can provide a medicated mouthwash.
Other suggestions your Springfield dentist may have are:
- Suck on sugar-free candy or chew on sugar-free gum
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist
- Brush with a fluoride toothpaste
- Use a fluoride rinse
- See your dentist regularly
- Use a room vaporizer to add moisture to bedroom air
- Use an over-the-counter artificial saliva substitute
