Everyone experiences dry mouth at some point in their life, but chronic dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be a real struggle to deal with. When our salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva, you will develop dry mouth and often other symptoms like bad breath, changes in taste, or cracked lips. Solving the problem of dry mouth may require medication, but some cases can be solved by changing up your diet and behaviors. Learn more about the causes and treatment of dry mouth in the blog below.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

Many conditions and lifestyle options can cause dry mouth in adults. People with certain allergies, aging adults, or those with underlying health problems are more prone to dry mouth. Some common causes can include:

• Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, or beta blockers
• Receiving chemotherapy or radiation
• Diabetes
• Sjogren’s syndrome
• Nerve damage
• Yeast infections or thrush

If you have one of these conditions or medical interventions, talking to your dentist early on may help prevent dry mouth. If you have concerns about dry mouth, working with your dentist can help you develop a plan to limit the symptoms and prevent further dental damage.

Increase Your Water Intake

The easiest way to limit the symptoms of dry mouth is to drink plenty of water or sugar-free fluids. Regularly sipping water throughout the day and getting the recommended amount of water daily will keep your mouth wet and rinse out bacteria that may remain in your mouth and lead to cavities. If you are struggling with dry mouth, increase your water intake, even if you are getting the recommended amount of water. 

Sleep With A Humidifier

While drinking water works throughout the day, while you are sleeping, breathing in the surrounding air can worsen your dry mouth symptoms. Running a humidifier during the night can help add more moisture to the air, helping you wake up without a sore throat or cotton mouth. Depending on your climate, running a humidifier during the winter season is crucial for those with dry mouth, as the air gets drier during these months. 

Avoid Mouthwashes With Alcohol

Using mouthwash is an important component of many people’s oral routine, but avoid ones with alcohol, as they can be abrasive to your teeth. Alcohol-free mouthwash will be more moisturizing for your mouth and won’t worsen your symptoms. Alcohol in any form can be irritating to those with dry mouth and worsen symptoms, so lowering your consumption in any form will be recommended by dental experts.

Lower Sugar Intake

Choosing sugar-free options or lowering your sugar intake overall can help with symptoms of dry mouth. Sucking on sugar-free candies can help with saliva production without increasing the risk of tooth decay. Sugar-free drinks, gum, and natural sugar foods won’t dry out your mouth and are overall healthier for your health. 

Ask A Dentist For Medication

For severe cases of dry mouth that aren’t improved by home remedies, your dentist may prescribe an artificial saliva product or other medications to help keep your mouth moist. An artificial saliva product can come in the form of a toothpaste, mouthwash, or gel, so there is an option for different situations and abilities. Discuss options with a doctor or dentist to find out the side effects of different treatments and how different options may help with your specific symptoms.

Even if you have never experienced dry mouth symptoms, if you start to feel more of a cotton-mouth feel or feel the need to drink more, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. They may be able to help you avoid the need for medication and stop tooth decay early. 

Dental Care From Our Professionals

Jenson Dental is Brigham City’s top-rated dental practice that offers cosmetic treatments, dental cleanings, veneers, dentures, implants, and more. Our team is dedicated to helping boost your confidence while giving you the proper tools to have quality oral health. Your smile is an important part of your daily life and your looks, so taking care of it can help change how you go about your daily life.

Visiting the dentist often will ensure that you don’t experience cavities or severe tooth decay that can be painful. No one wants to think about dental work or tooth pain, so attending your dental appointments every 6 months will help you avoid unnecessary procedures. Jenson Dental can’t wait to work with you and your family! Reach out to schedule your appointment today!