Dry Mouth Treatment
Does Dry Mouth Ever Go Away?
If the cause of dry mouth is due to a specific medication, changing the medication can sometimes decrease or eliminate the symptoms of dry mouth.
What Are The Symptoms of Dry Mouth?
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Do you experience dryness or stickiness in your mouth?
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Do you feel like you have bad breath?
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Is it hard to chew or swallow your food?
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Is it difficult to speak sometimes?
All of these are signs and symptoms of dry mouth, one of the most prevalent oral conditions seen in the geriatric population.
What Causes Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth can be due to the normal aging process which results in the loss of about 30% of salivary gland cells. More commonly though, it is due to polypharmacy, the increased use of multiple medications in the elderly where a common side effect is a dry mouth due to the reduction in the quantity of saliva.
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This allows harmful bacteria to concentrate and stay on your teeth for longer periods of time which, in turn, causes an increase in the rate of dental cavities,
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Some people will develop oral candidiasis.
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Others can develop thinning and inflammation of the mucosa, the inner lining of the mouth.
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This can lead to an increase in soft tissue infections, irritation with prosthesis wear, and decreased retention of dentures.
How Does Mehan Dental Treat Dry Mouth?
Treatment Options Available:
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Mouth sprays, gels, rinses, and XPUR products all help for short term
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You can try massaging the salivary gland with your fingertip or tongue
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Sip water regularly
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Use a fluoride rinse, fluoridated toothpaste, and remineralizing kinds of toothpaste
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Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your room
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Avoid all carbonated beverages
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Limit coffee and alcohol
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Regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Contact Us Today
For more information call us at 519-622-5444 or contact us online:
