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Ethos dental in Ringwood cares about its patients. Thats why when we see or think of something that we feel that our patients need to know about, we put our pen to paper and start writing. This is a blog on all things dental, be it dental hygiene, cosmetic dentistry ideas or just plain good habits!
DRY MOUTH! ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
October 30, 2018 Uncategorized
What is Dry Mouth?
Saliva is essential. It not only helps to break down food and keep your mouth moist, but it also helps you to swallow food and keep your teeth healthy. Dry mouth is a condition where the flow of saliva is affected, causing your mouth to feel constantly dry.
What are the symptoms?
The most common symptoms include thick and stringy saliva, difficulty to swallow or speak and a rough, dry tongue.
Less common symptoms include a burning sensation or being very sensitive to certain foods. When the mouth is dry, it can become sore and the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease increases. However, these symptoms don’t always mean you have dry mouth, so it’s always best to talk to a dentist or doctor.
What causes dry mouth?
Dry mouth can happen as you get older, but it’s most commonly a side effect of medications. Sometimes it’s also caused by medical treatments you are undergoing, or as a direct result of a medical condition such as diabetes.
Can it be prevented?
Unfortunately, it cannot be prevented, but there are products that can reduce the symptoms. These products are usually gel or sprays such as toothpaste and mouthwash, which contain a variety of agents such as lubricants which help to treat dry mouth. Products can also help with decreasing the risk of dental decay and gum problems.
However, it is suggested that you talk to your dentist first.
How often should I visit my dentist if I have dry mouth?
It is recommended to visit your dentist every 6 months for a check up and clean. Especially since there is an increased risk of dental decay and gum disease associated with dry mouth, decays can progress faster than usual.