What Exactly Is Dry Mouth & How Can I Treat It?

Dry Mouth

Xerostomia, or “dry mouth” as it is commonly known, is a condition in which your mouth does not produce enough saliva to maintain the proper moisture level to keep your mouth comfortably wet. Continue reading to learn more about this condition including the best ways to treat it.

Signs & Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Unlike other oral conditions, it is fairly obvious if you are suffering from dry mouth. Patients experience discomfort due to a sticky, dry feeling in their mouth which can often cause trouble swallowing, irritation, cracking of the tongue, bad breath, and in some cases tooth decay and mouth sores.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

There are several reasons you may be suffering from dry mouth. The glands that produce saliva in your mouth are not working as they should be to produce an adequate amount of saliva. Dry mouth is often a side effect of stress, some medications, anxiety, and some autoimmune disorders such as Sjorgren’s syndrome.

Prognosis for Dry Mouth

The form of treatment you try will depend on what is causing your dry mouth. You should seek guidance from your dentist for the best treatment plan, as there are several options such as:

• Over-the-counter or prescription medicine that help your glands produce more saliva
• Change or adjust the medication that is causing your dry mouth
• Purchase artificial saliva to keep your mouth moist
• Cut back on smoking if you are a smoker experiencing dry mouth
• Eliminate certain foods in your diet such as sugar and caffeine
• Increase your water consumption

Treating Dry Mouth in Greater Chicago

The only way to know how to treat your own dry mouth is to consult your dentist. Your dentist will not only offer their professional opinion, but they will also be familiar with the other aspects of your oral health and will be able to give you the best assessment of the situation and where to do from here. Contact the location closest to you today for treating dry mouth in Aurora, Blue Island, Chicago (Austin), Chicago (United Center), or Joliet.