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Xerostomia also known as dry mouth is a condition wherein salivary gland don’t produce enough saliva to keep the oral cavity wet. Enough salivation is important in maintaining oral health by preventing tooth decay and neutralizing the acids produced by bacteria and washes stuck food particles; it also helps in easing digestion.
Various factors cause the mouth to dry out such as various types of medications mostly anti depressants,anti allergy medicine etc;Individuals on cancer treatment chemotherapy and radiation suffer from problems of decreased salivation.
Conditions like diabetes,HIV/AIDSetc also affect the salivary glands ;Any nerve damage to salivary glands and aging also cause dry mouth.
Various Lifestyle factors like Smoking or chewing tobacco, alcohol consumption also causes dry mouth Symptoms.
Inadequacy of saliva results in:
The mouth and throat may feel dry or sticky.
Foul breath.
Difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing.
Metallic taste or a changed flavor.
Increased tooth decay, especially near the gum line.
Cracked lips and sores in the mouth.
In addition to evaluating the patient’s medical history and any medications that may be a factor in the condition, dentists diagnose dry mouth by observing dryness in the mucous membranes of the mouth.
Preventive measures
In order to deal with dry mouth, one have to deal with the root cause and modify your lifestyle. One should also talk to your healthcare professional about modifying any drugs that could be causing your dry mouth.
Limit the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.
Drink water every day to stay hydrated.
To add moisture to the air, use a humidifier.
To promote salivation, chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy.
For treating dry mouth salivary stimulation is essential using certain medications, mouthwashes, gels or sprays can provide relief.
Using fluoride toothpaste can further help in maintaining oral health by preventing decay. Incase of any blockage or nerve issue to salivary glands medical intervention is important.
Consulting with a dentist who will develop a customized care plan is important for any individual with dry mouth issues.
Various factors cause the mouth to dry out such as various types of medications mostly anti depressants,anti allergy medicine etc;Individuals on cancer treatment chemotherapy and radiation suffer from problems of decreased salivation.HIV/AIDSetc also affect the salivary glands ;Any nerve damage to salivary glands and aging also cause dry mouth.
A consistently dry mouth, difficulty speaking or swallowing, altered taste, more cavities, mouth sores, foul smell, and cracked lips are a few of the symptoms. For a diagnosis, speak with a dentist if you experience these symptoms.
Having a dry mouth raises the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, mouth sores, and infections like thrush. It can also affect your speech and dietary abilities, which might have an impact on your overall health.
Drink plenty of water, chew sugar-free gum, use a humidifier, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and consume a little caffeine. Saliva replacements available over-the-counter or moisturizing mouth sprays can also be helpful.
Dry mouth is a common side effect associated with multiple drugs. Contact your healthcare practitioner regarding alternatives or reductions in dosage if you think your medicine is the cause of the problem. Take advice from your doctor before making any modifications to the prescribed routine.
In order to prevent and treat tooth decay and other oral health issues, individuals who suffer from dry mouth might require more regular dental checkups. Discuss about the ideal schedule for your particular needs with your dentist.
Yes, anyone can have dry mouth at times although those over 65 are more probable to suffer it than younger people. This is partly because medications and chronic illnesses are more likely to cause dry mouth in this population.
Yes, treating symptoms of dry mouth using a nutritious diet and plenty of water is possible. Sugary or sticky food can increase the risk of dental decay, especially in individuals with limited saliva flow, whereas foods strong in acid or spices could worsen a dry mouth.
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