What Causes Dry Mouth?
What Causes Dry Mouth?
Saliva plays an important role in our oral health. We all know how uncomfortable dry mouth can be. But why does it happen? And what can we do if it continues?
Saliva is Essential to Oral Health
Our bodies produce two to four pints of saliva a day! Saliva not only provides our mouth with moisture, but also helps with digestion as well as allowing us to taste and process our food. Saliva helps wash away leftover food in the mouth and even strengthens teeth against cavities!
Dry Mouth is Caused by Multiple Things
When our salivary glands aren’t working properly, it causes an insufficient flow of saliva leading to dry mouth. Dry mouth can make us feel thirsty and leave our mouths feeling sticky and uncomfortable. Speaking, tasting, and swallowing may be difficult. Even worse, it may cause bad breath.
Being nervous or stressed can cause dry mouth. The more serious and continuous cases of dry mouth are caused by multiple factors, such as:
- Medications. Examples include antihistamines, decongestants, diuretics, and painkillers.
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Illnesses such as Alzheimers, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
- Medical treatments that affect the salivary glands, like radiation or chemotherapy.
- Dehydration as well as conditions that to lead to dehydration. This includes fever, vomiting, excessive sweating, burns, and blood loss.
We Are Here to Talk About Dry Mouth
Aside from being uncomfortable, dry mouth also leads to a higher risk of tooth decay, infection, and gum disease. Dry mouth should be taken care of immediately. We can help find the best treatment for your dry mouth, depending on the cause. Meanwhile, you can try chewing sugar-free gum or sugar-free candy. Don’t forget to drink lots of water too!
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