Dry Mouth

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Dry mouth relief at belmont dental

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a relatively common condition in which saliva production is decreased, causing the mouth to feel persistently dry. Not only can dry mouth be a significant source of discomfort, but it may also be the root of a number of more serious dental problems, including gum disease and tooth decay. If you are experiencing dry mouth, the team at Belmont Dental Group can help you find relief in our family-friendly practice. Read on to learn why you should not ignore symptoms of dry mouth.

Causes of dry mouth

There are several possible causes of dry mouth, and identifying the cause for your symptoms will be an important part of your treatment. In some cases, there is a specific medication or medical condition that will cause dry mouth. Changing medications or treating underlying conditions can resolve symptoms and allow you to enjoy greater comfort throughout your daily routine. Here’s a closer look at some of the possible causes for your dry mouth.

Age

As you get older, saliva production may naturally slow down, causing dry mouth to develop. Dry mouth is also a common side effect of medications commonly prescribed to elderly individuals.

A handful of medical conditions can impact saliva production, particularly those that may lead to nerve damage such as diabetes. Cancer and chronic snoring may also be associated with limited saliva production.

Tobacco use, whether it comes in the form of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or chewing tobacco, is harmful to your oral health for a number of reasons, including a high risk for dry mouth. If you smoke and are experiencing dry mouth, your dentist will likely recommend that you quit.

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A woman smiles while sitting in a dental chair. A dental professional in white gloves is holding a dental mirror close to her mouth.
A blue gradient background with curved lines and dots, forming a wave pattern. The top-left and bottom-right corners are rounded, evoking a calming sense of home reminiscent of Belmont Dental Group's welcoming ambiance.

Potential Risks of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can do much more than cause you discomfort. Left untreated, dry mouth might promote tooth decay, because there is insufficient saliva to dilute acids in the food you eat that can wear away at the tooth enamel. Saliva is also necessary for keeping the gums clean and healthy, so you may be more likely to suffer from gum disease with dry mouth. Finally, you might experience problems enjoying food and maintaining healthy digestion when you do not address dry mouth under the care of your dentist.

Treatment Options

When you visit Belmont Dental Group to treat dry mouth, we will explore your medical and dental history to explore possible causes. If underlying causes are not treatable themselves, we may prescribe special mouthwash or a saliva substitute to help you maintain a healthy smile.

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