Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, describes a feeling of dryness in the mouth that arises from reduced saliva production. This state is one of the 15 most common dental problems because saliva plays an important role in oral health. The symptoms of a dry feeling in the mouth are not only uncomfortable, but can also affect oral health. Most common symptoms of a dry mouth are:
- Burning feeling in the mouth and cracked lips
- Difficulties chewing, swallowing or speaking
- Bad breath and taste disorders
- Increased susceptibility to caries and gum infections
If you find these signs, read on! Cosmedica Dental explains what the causes of a dryness in the mouth are and how you can treat it.
Causes of dry mouth
Most common causes of dryness
- Medicines: Certain drugs (antidepressants, blood pressure lowerers, pain relievers) can cause dryness. Older people in particular are affected if they take several medication at the same time.
- Diseases: Some diseases can lead to the mouth always dry and infections in the mouth. The body’s defenses attack the salivary glands and they cannot fight tooth decay.
- Radiation therapy: People with cancer often have problems with salivary glands. This occurs especially when doctors irradiate the patients in the head or neck area.
- Hormonal changes: Women in menopause often report on dry mouth at night. Hormonal fluctuations, a decline in estrogen level, can influence saliva production and lead to dry mouth.
Other causes
- Stress and fear: Psychological factors such as high blood pressure or nervousness can affect the flow of saliva. The body produces less saliva, which leads to inflammation of the oral mucosa.
- Alcohol consumption and smoking: Alcohol and nicotine are bad for the salivary glands because they disturb the blood circulation. This dries out mucous membranes.
- Mouth breathing: Those who breathe through the mouth, especially during sleep, often have a dry mouth in the morning. A clogged nose, snoring, or a crooked septum can reinforce this.
Additional causes of dryness are: too much coffee, certain diseases, health conditions and autoimmune diseases. If the dryness does not stop, go to the doctor or dentist.
Diseases related to dry mouth
A dry mouth can be a sign of a disease. However, it is also one of the causes of gum disease and inflammation. The common diseases associated with dryness in the mouth include:
- Diabetes mellitus: High blood sugar levels can cause a lack of moisture in the mouth. As a result, the glands in the mouth don’t work, and bacteria can grow faster in the mouths of people with diabetes.
- Sjögren syndrome: Sjögren’s disease affects the glands that produce saliva and tears. The immune system attacks these glands. As a result, people have dry mouths, eyes, and feel tired all the time.
- Parkinson’s disease: This affects the nervous system and muscles throughout the body, including the glands. Many people with Parkinson’s take medication that has dry mouth as a side effect.
Diagnosis and treatment for dry mouth
A doctor will ask about your medical history and look at your mouth to diagnose dryness. They might also measure the amount of saliva or order more tests. The treatment depends on the cause of the dry mouth. Here are some possible ways to stimulate saliva production:
- Liquid intake: Drinking plenty of water; some people suck on ice to reinforce saliva production.
- Saliva replacement medium: Special gels or sprays can moisturize the oral mucosa.
- Sugar-free chewing gum or pastilles: Sugar -free candies stimulate saliva production.
- Adaptation of medication: If medication is the cause, the doctor may prescribe an alternative.
- Treatment of the underlying disease: diabetes or diseases must be treated by a doctor.
Home remedies for dry mouth
- Chewing of sugar-free chewing gum
- Drink sage tea or chamomile tea
- Use humidifiers in the bedroom
- Do not do alcohol, coffee and nicotine
You should see the doctor if your dryness doesn’t go away after two weeks. See a specialist, especially if you also have problems like gum infections or problems tasting things.
Conclusion
If your mouth is permanently dry, it is uncomfortable and can affect the health of teeth and gums. This can lead to a higher risk for tooth decay and infections. An early diagnosis is important to recognize possible underlying diseases and avoid consequential damage. An experienced team at Cosmedica Dental and the latest technologies help dental diseases and problems with dry mouth!