Everyone experiences a dry mouth once in a while. It could be when we first wake up in the morning or maybe after an intense workout at the gym. For some people, dry mouth is a chronic condition that occurs frequently and can lead to issues. Not only can chronic dry mouth be uncomfortable, it can also lead to major problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
The Importance of Saliva
Those with dry mouth are not able to produce or retain enough saliva in their mouths. Saliva is a vital part of your oral health. Some of the most important roles saliva plays in our mouth include the following:
- Saliva produces enzymes that help with food digestion
- It stabilizes the pH levels in our mouths
- Provides the high level of oxygen needed to keep oral tissues healthy and fresh.
When a person has dry mouth, not only do their mouths become the perfect breeding ground for sulfur-producing bacteria, but it can also lead to chronic bad breath.
Here are 3 tips on what you can do to fix your dry mouth:
- Drink Lots of Water
Not only should you be drinking plenty of water, but you should also try to avoid drinks that contribute to dry mouth, such as alcoholic beverages and drinks that contain caffeine. This also goes for mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Keep a bottle or glass of water with you throughout the day and be sure to have one nearby as you sleep in case you wake up and find yourself with dry mouth.
Related: Is fluoride water good for you?
- Saliva Producing Foods
There are some foods that help to boost the production of saliva in the mouth. A hard piece of uncooked pasta, for example, can help stimulate saliva. Try sucking on sugarless free candies or chewing sugar free gum. Keep a pack of these candies or gum close by so you are prepared for any dry mouth situation that comes up.
- Talk to your dentist about medication that can either help to prevent dry mouth or to create more saliva. There are some dry mouth causes that are directly related to other issues such as your age, medications, gum disease, hormone imbalances, or even rheumatoid arthritis. It is important that your dentist helps you diagnose these issues properly.
I am happy to discuss dry mouth causes and remedies with you anytime. I know how it can affect your daily life and would love to help you overcome this issue. Call Smile Concepts at 489-951-2800 to set up a consultation.
