Dry mouth happens when your salivary glands fail to produce as much saliva as you actually need. It can be a pain and make your mouth feel uncomfortably dry. While dry mouth is not an officially diagnosable condition, it can be a symptom of another underlying condition. In addition, it can be a risk for certain dental conditions like tooth decay or gum disease. Below you will find some tips for how to combat dry mouth. However, if the issue is persistent you’ll want to contact your Encino dentist to see if there is an underlying condition that is causing the issue.
Water
Consistently drinking water can help with dry mouth. Studies have shown that dehydration may be a major factor. It’s advised that men drink at least 3 liters of water each day and women drink at least 2.2 liters. Continuous hydration can also help with cleaning and flushing out your mouth and any residual food or bacteria.
Sugar-Free Candies and Gum
Sucking or chewing on sugar-free candy or gum can help alleviate your dry mouth in the short-term. The sucking and chewing can help activate your salivary glands.
Breathing
One way to help combat dry mouth is to breathe through your nose. Breathing through your mouth can cause dryness and make things worse.
Dehydration
Some habits can cause dehydration which can make dry mouth worse. If possible, limit your intake of caffeinated drinks and alcohol. If you do drink coffee, tea, or alcohol, be sure and compensate with also drinking extra water.
Smoking
Cutting back or quitting smoking can reduce symptoms. Studies have shown that smoking increases issues.
Sugar Intake
Sugar can dehydrate you in the same way caffeine and alcohol can. Cut down on your sugar intake to reduce the symptoms of mouth dryness.
Mouthwash
While mouthwash is a helpful tool for your overall oral hygiene routine, it can be a factor in mouth dryness if it has alcohol in it. Use alcohol-free mouthwash to combat any potential triggers. Also, certain mouthwashes can help promote saliva production so look for products with xylitol in them.
Humidifier
Studies suggest that humidifiers can help improve symptoms of dry mouth. Running a humidifier can help as it adds more moisture to the environment.
Medications
Studies show that the most common cause of dry mouth is medications. Some of the main culprits include antihistamines, antihypertensive, hormone medications, and bronchodilators. If you think your medication is causing mouth dryness, contact the prescribing doctor.
Oral Hygiene Routine
Dry mouth could be a symptom of a poor oral hygiene routine. Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine is important. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with water or mouthwash after eating.
Saliva Substitutes
These can be purchased without a prescription at your local pharmacy. This is more of a short-term fix as it won’t cure the underlying issue causing mouth dryness.
If your dry mouth persists, you may want to contact a dentist. It is an uncomfortable condition that could be a symptom of a more serious condition. If your mouth dryness persists and none of the remedies above alleviate your discomfort, contact a dentist for help.
Dentists in Encino, California
The team at Encino Family Dental specializes in a variety of dental issues. Dr. Marian Yassa is a highly educated and experienced dentist. She has worked with numerous patients with a range of dental issues. Dr. Yassa and her team at Encino Family Dental are eager to help with any of your dental issues, so contact the office for an appointment today!
