Dry Mouth and Cavities

Patients can have a dry mouth for many reasons. Some are temporary, perhaps as a result of an illness like a cold and medications you take that can dry up the sinuses and oral cavity. But if dry mouth is chronic, your dentist in Grand Prairie has suggestions that can bring you relief.

This dry mouth condition is known as xerostomia. Basically, the body lacks the ability to produce sufficient saliva for normal oral health. 

If dry mouth is chronic, your dentist has suggestions that can bring you relief.

When the mouth is dry, it provides ideal conditions for dental decay and gum disease to develop. Saliva is our own natural mouthwash which aids in keeping bacteria flushed from the mouth. Saliva also serves as one component in breaking down the enzymes that aid in digestion.

If dry mouth is a problem, there are a few options you can try:

  1. If dry mouth is attributed to medicines taken, a different medication might be prescribed or altering the dosage may help.
  2. If dry mouth is a result of chemotherapy or surgery; or merely the inability for glands to produce saliva, you can chew sugar free gum or suck on sugar free candy. The chewing and sucking actions may help to promote saliva production.
  3. Keeping water on hand and sipping it throughout the day and night will keep the mouth moist.
  4. For cavity protection, brushing a minimum of twice per day with a fluoridated tooth paste along with daily flossing are essential to maintain good dental health.
  5. Seeing the dentist every six months for cleaning and an exam will aid in reducing plaque build-up as well as monitoring problem areas before they can escalate into major repair.
  6. Avoid the things known to promote dental decay including sugary snacks and beverages; tobacco use; excessive alcohol or caffeine (alcohol and caffeine are known to promote dehydration).
  7. When the mouth is extremely dry, the ability to chew and swallow may be impeded. The diet should include moist foods and limit the intake of dry or salty products.

Other dental services in Grand Prairie could include asking Dr. Robert D. Maxey or Dr. Cecil F. George, Jr. to recommend one of the products over the counter that helps promote saliva production. Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. If lips are also dry, a lip balm can provide relief.

Although a dry mouth is more aggravating than dangerous, relief is available.  Your dentist at The Dental Place is your best resource for finding a solution. Contact The Dental Place in Grand Prairie, TX today.