Do you always wake up with cotton mouth? Do you find it hard to talk because your lips are always sticking to your teeth? Have you stopped eating certain foods because they’re just too hard to swallow? You may be suffering from dry mouth or xerostomia. There are many causes of xerostomia, including systemic diseases, common medications, and even just breathing through your mouth.
Other than just being annoying, having a dry mouth can lead to increased dental disease. When there isn’t enough saliva to wash away the plaque you are more prone to cavities, bad breath and gum disease. So what can you do about it? There are several things you can do to protect your teeth on your own. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and brush and floss thoroughly to remove all the plaque. You may need to brush more often than someone with normal salivary flow. See your dentist regularly.
There are several over the counter products for dry mouth such as toothpaste, mouthwashes and oral moisturizers that many people find helpful. Biotene, Oasis and Act are a few brands to try. In more severe cases, you may need a prescription-strength toothpaste or products to re-mineralize weakened tooth surfaces. There are several exciting new products that we can recommend including one that’s just like eating a piece of candy! Be sure to ask us at your next appointment and we can recommend the right combination of products for your situation.
