Pinedale Dental

Dry mouth: What effects does it have on your teeth?

Published on April 19, 2010 by Dr. Kevin Kunard in Dental Care Tips, Uncategorized,

Dry mouth: What effects does it have on your teeth?
Dry mouth also known as Xerostomia is associated with salivary gland hypofunction where there is a reduced amount of salivary output. This watery substance in our mouth aids in lubricating and protecting our teeth, tongue and tissues. It aids in chewing, swallowing and digesting food and also protects our teeth from decay. Saliva is composed of 98% water and 2% is made up of electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial components and various enzymes. When we aren’t producing an adequate amount of saliva to lubricate the mouth, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque we become more prone to cavities.

Many people are at risk for having dry mouth, but are unaware that it can create an unhealthy environment for your mouth.  Furthermore, it may be a sign of a disease such as poorly controlled diabetes or other systemic conditions but in many cases it is often a result of prescription medications. Dry mouth can be a side effect of numerous medications. Some of these medications include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, blood pressure medication and antidepressants. Other causes of insufficient salivary production include anxiety, stress, consumption of alcohol, dehydration, radiation therapy and excessive breathing through the mouth.

Some common problems with dry mouth include a burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, oral infections, gum disease, bad breath and tooth decay. A dry mouth also irritates the soft tissues in the mouth making them more susceptible to infection. Without the cleansing effect of saliva oral health problems become more common.

How is dry mouth treated? 
If dry mouth is caused by a medication you can talk with your doctor about changing the medication or dosage. However, if there is an underlying medical condition causing dry mouth where the salivary gland has been damaged by radiation or chemotherapy treatment, or as a consequence of a disease, like sjogrens syndrome or alzheimer’s, there are ways to increase salivary flow and maintain healthy teeth.

Ways to manage dry mouth and prevent tooth decay:

1. Drink water frequently and sip on water throughout the day.
2. Suck on sugar free candy or chew sugar free gum, gum containing xylitol can help stimulate salivary flow while preventing cavities.
3. Avoid mouth rinses that contain alcohol and avoid alcoholic beverages because they increase dry mouth
4. Limit intake of salty and spicy foods
5. Quit smoking
6. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush your teeth at least twice a day or after every meal and use a fluoridated toothpaste.
7. Floss your teeth daily
8. Visit your dentist at least twice a year and we may recommend a paste or gel to keep your teeth strong and aid in the prevention of cavities. 

Blog Written by Tayte Biffle.

---