Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is not a specific disorder but a symptom of another issue. Besides an uncomfortable dryness in the mouth, those suffering from dry mouth may also experience:

• • Sore throat
  • “Stringy” or “thick” saliva
  • Bad breath
  • Tooth decay
  • Problems speaking and swallowing

For many, dry mouth is annoying and not a serious problem. But for some, it can lead to other serious conditions. Saliva keeps the tissues in our mouths well lubricated, keeps our teeth clean, and helps digest food. Inadequate saliva can be uncomfortable, lead to problems eating and speaking, and contribute to tooth decay.

While aging itself is responsible for some dry mouth, most cases are due to the side effects of medications. There are hundreds of medications that list dry mouth as a side effect. Your dentists at North Valdosta Dental Care can help determine the particular causes of your dry mouth and help rule out rarer but more serious conditions.

If a medication is the cause, your physician may be able to prescribe an alternate medication. Many common sense approaches will also help, including taking frequent sips of water and stimulating saliva with sugar-free gum or candy. Reducing your intake of caffeine, carbonated beverages, and alcohol may also help.

Consult your dentists at North Valdosta Dental Care to rule out some serious conditions that reduce the flow of saliva. Once they have ruled out other causes, they will recommend some simple remedies. There are also some oral rinses and artificial saliva products available. They will recommend that you be especially vigilant about oral hygiene since inadequate saliva can increase your chance of tooth decay.