Facts and Tips: Dry mouth

For many people, dry mouth occurs just once in a blue moon. Dehydration, a few too many beers, or simply sleeping with an open mouth are all potential causes. 

 

Unfortunately, for some people, dry mouth is a persistent issue that can have a negative influence on their daily lives. In addition to the physical consequences, it can make people feel insecure in social circumstances, to the point where eating and speaking in public can be distressing.

 

Visit no gap dentists Sydney to know more.

 

According to current studies, one out of every four persons has the illness, with the number rising to 40% in the over-55s. As a result, one of the most prevalent oral health issues is dry mouth.

Here are some facts about dry mouth to help you learn more about the problem:

1.  Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which the flow of saliva is disrupted, resulting in a dry mouth.
   
   
2. Saliva is required for the healthy functioning of your mouth. Saliva keeps your mouth wet, aids in the digestion of food, and aids in swallowing. It also cleans the mouth by neutralising plaque acids. It is continually washing around your mouth and teeth, preventing tooth decay and aiding in the cleaning of your teeth.
   
   
3. Less saliva can alter the taste of food and make it more difficult to chew drier meals. It can sometimes impact your speech and make people more prone to having bad breath.
   
   
4. During the night, when the mouth produces less saliva than during the day, dry mouth is more common.
   
   
5. Dry mouth can cause soreness in the mouth, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
   
   
6. It might be caused by old age, or it can be a side effect of medication, particularly heart, blood pressure, and depression medications. If your medicine can create complications, your doctor, pharmacist, or dental team should be able to tell you.

Top Five Tips:

1. Make sure you see your dentist on a regular basis since dry mouth increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can progress more quickly than usual. As a result, it's critical to see your dentist on a frequent basis. They will advise you on how frequently you should go.
   
   
2. It is critical to use a fluoride toothpaste with a fluoride content of at least 1350 to 1500ppm (parts per million). Be warned that some products contain Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS), which can irritate the mouth and worsen the condition in certain people with dry mouth.
   
   
3. A variety of products are available to keep your mouth moist and comfortable. Typically, these are gels or sprays. Some contain additional chemicals that may aid in the prevention of tooth and gum issues. There are various products available to assist you with your daily dental hygiene (for example toothpastes and mouth rinses).
   
   
4. Chewing sugar-free gum can help relieve dry mouth by encouraging saliva production. Rinses, gels, pastes, and lozenges, which you can purchase from the pharmacist, may be recommended by your dentist.
   
   
5. In the short term, some people find that drinking water or sucking sugar-free sweets helps. It's important to utilise sugar-free products since dry mouth can increase your risk of dental decay.