Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Causes

 

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

No matter what age you are saliva plays an important role in proper oral health care. Saliva acts as a natural cleanser that wipes away the acids in our mouth, helps remineralize our teeth and aids in eating and digesting food. Lower levels of saliva can increase the risk of tooth decay, cause gum problems, contribute to bad breath (halitosis) and other oral health issues.

Unfortunately, there are some things that can reduce the flow of saliva and contribute to dry mouth or xerostomia. Also, as we grow older the amount of saliva produced may start to decrease. This decrease may be natural or due to a number of factors including:

• medications and chemicals - over 400 medications can cause dry mouth including diuretics, caffeine, antihypertensives and antidepressants
• illness and diseases - autoimmune disorders can cause dry mouth symptoms
• cancer - radiation therapy can damage salivary glands
• anxiety - nervousness

Dry mouth can also lead to serious nutritional problems aside from tooth decay and oral diseases. Imagine the dry and sensitive feeling of dry mouth and the foods we eat. Eating spicy or acidic foods can cause severe pain when they come in contact with dry, irritated areas in your mouth. Also, eating dry foods like breads and cereals can be difficult due to the lack of saliva to soften the food. Finally, it has been noted that a lot of dry mouth sufferers don't enjoy the taste of food (or lack thereof) which can reduce their interest in eating.

How can we help relieve dry mouth?

• Avoid or limit drinks containing caffeine
• Drink water throughout the day
• Chew sugarless gums and suck on sugarless candy or mints
• Avoid alcohol, especially the alcohol based mouthwashes found in most stores (our Lemon Power Rinse adds a bit of lemon which can help stimulate salivary glands without the irritation of direct citrus contact in your mouth)
• Ask your dentist about solutions to help lubricate your mouth

Less saliva can not only be a nuisance but a health issue as well. Remembering to brush and floss before you go to bed will also help fight tooth decay when the saliva levels are reduced and can't contribute as well in fighting tooth decay.

Continue on to: Why Alcohol in Mouthwash is Bad

 

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