Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when your mouth does not produce enough saliva. While an occasional dry mouth may be temporary, persistent dry mouth can affect your comfort and increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

At Scarborough Village Dental Care, we can help identify possible oral health concerns associated with dry mouth and recommend ways to protect your teeth and gums.

Why Is Saliva Important?

Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. It helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids produced by bacteria, and provide minerals that help protect tooth enamel.

Saliva also helps moisten your mouth, making it easier to chew, swallow, and speak comfortably.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth can have many different causes. Sometimes it is temporary, while in other cases it can continue for an extended period.

• Certain medications
• Dehydration
• Mouth breathing
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Stress or anxiety
• Some medical conditions
• Certain medical treatments
• Changes in the salivary glands

If you regularly experience dry mouth, speak with your dentist or physician. They can help determine whether an underlying cause needs to be addressed.

Medications & Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications. A variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications can affect saliva production.

If you believe a medication may be contributing to your dry mouth, do not stop taking it without speaking with your physician. Your healthcare provider may be able to recommend an alternative or discuss ways to manage the side effect.

What Does Dry Mouth Feel Like?

Dry mouth can cause more than simply feeling thirsty. You may notice a number of changes in your mouth.

• A sticky or dry feeling in your mouth
• Frequent thirst
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Difficulty speaking for extended periods
• Dry or cracked lips
• A dry or rough tongue
• Changes in taste
• Bad breath
• Increased tooth sensitivity

Dry Mouth & Tooth Decay

Because saliva helps protect your teeth from acids and bacteria, reduced saliva production can increase your risk of cavities.

People with persistent dry mouth may develop decay more quickly, particularly around the gum line and on areas of the teeth that are normally protected by saliva.

Good oral hygiene and regular dental care are especially important if you experience chronic dry mouth.

Dry Mouth & Gum Health

Reduced saliva can also affect the soft tissues of your mouth and may contribute to irritation and an increased risk of oral infections.

Maintaining clean teeth and gums and keeping your mouth adequately hydrated can help support a healthier oral environment.

How Can You Manage Dry Mouth?

There are several simple measures that may help relieve the symptoms of dry mouth and keep your mouth more comfortable.

• Drink water regularly throughout the day.
• Keep water nearby so you can sip when your mouth feels dry.
• Chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production.
• Use sugar-free lozenges when appropriate.
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid smoking and tobacco products.
• Use a humidifier if dry air contributes to your symptoms.
• Maintain a consistent brushing and interdental cleaning routine.

Choose Sugar-Free Options

If you use gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva, choose sugar-free products. Sugary products can increase the risk of tooth decay, particularly when saliva production is already reduced.

Products containing xylitol may be recommended in some situations, but they should be used according to your dental professional’s advice.

Dry Mouth at Night

Dry mouth can sometimes be more noticeable while sleeping. Mouth breathing, nasal congestion, medications, and other factors can contribute to nighttime dryness.

Keeping water beside your bed and using a humidifier may provide some relief. If you regularly wake with a very dry mouth, discuss the symptoms with your dental or medical professional.

Dry Mouth & Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene becomes particularly important when saliva production is reduced.

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth every day.
• Gently clean your tongue.
• Drink water regularly.
• Limit sugary foods and drinks.
• Visit your dentist regularly.

Your dentist may also recommend additional fluoride protection or other products if you have an increased risk of tooth decay.

When Should You See a Dentist?

If dry mouth continues for an extended period, it is important to discuss it with your dental or medical professional.

Contact your dental team if you experience persistent dryness along with:

• Frequent cavities
• Persistent bad breath
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Changes in taste
• Mouth sores or irritation
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Dry or cracked lips

Protecting Your Smile With Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can increase the risk of oral health problems, but there are steps you can take to protect your teeth and gums.

Staying hydrated, maintaining good oral hygiene, using fluoride protection, and attending regular dental examinations can help reduce the potential effects of dry mouth.

If you are experiencing persistent dry mouth, the team at Scarborough Village Dental Care can evaluate your oral health and help you develop an appropriate care routine.