Do you often experience a dry, sticky feeling in your mouth? Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common condition that can lead to discomfort and oral health problems if left untreated. At Vida Dental Group in Schaumburg, Illinois, we’re committed to helping you understand and manage this condition for better oral health.
What is Xerostomia?
Xerostomia occurs when your salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva, leading to dryness in the mouth. Saliva is essential for maintaining oral health—it helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids, and prevent tooth decay.
Causes of Xerostomia
Several factors can contribute to dry mouth, including:
• Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter drugs list dry mouth as a side effect.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, stroke, or autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome) can reduce saliva production.
• Radiation Therapy: Treatment for head and neck cancers can damage salivary glands.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to dry mouth.
• Lifestyle Choices: Smoking and tobacco use can interfere with saliva production.
Symptoms of Xerostomia
If you have dry mouth, you may experience:
• Persistent dryness or stickiness in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing, speaking, or tasting food
• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Chronic bad breath despite regular brushing
• Increased risk of cavities and gum disease
Treatments for Xerostomia
At Vida Dental Group, we offer a variety of solutions to help relieve dry mouth:
• Medication Adjustments: If your medication is causing dry mouth, your doctor may suggest alternatives.
• Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter sprays and rinses can help keep your mouth moist.
• Prescription Medications: Drugs like pilocarpine or cevimeline can stimulate saliva production.
• Good Oral Hygiene Practices: Brushing with fluoride toothpaste, using alcohol-free mouthwash, and flossing daily can help protect your teeth.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can ease symptoms.
Preventing Dry Mouth
To reduce the risk of xerostomia, try these preventive measures:
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly and limit caffeine intake.
• Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol: Both can contribute to dry mouth.
• Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help prevent mouth dryness, especially at night.
• Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Stimulates saliva production and keeps your mouth moist.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re experiencing persistent dry mouth, don’t wait—Vida Dental Group is here to help! Our experienced team provides comprehensive dental care for patients in Schaumburg and surrounding areas, including Hoffman Estates, Roselle, Hanover Park, Streamwood, Rolling Meadows, Bloomingdale, Bartlett, Palatine, and Elk Grove Village.
Call us today at 847-807-6024 or visit VidaDentalGroup.com to book an appointment.
For more information on dry mouth and oral health, check out resources from the American Dental Association and the Mayo Clinic.
