Ft Lauderdale Family, Cosmetic, and Sedation Dentistry Blog | Dr. Thomas O'Neil
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep the mouth moist, which helps prevent decay and other oral health problems. Dry mouth may be a sign of a serious health condition or may occur when a person is upset or experiences stress.
Studies show that up to 400 prescription and over-the-counter medications can contribute to symptoms associated with dry mouth. The most common troublemakers are anti-hypertensives, anti-depressants, painkillers, tranquilizers, diuretics and antihistamines.
Dry mouth can cause extensive tooth decay (even in a person who’s had a healthy mouth for years), and it contributes to many other oral health problems
To ease dry mouth pain:
1.Brush and floss twice a day
2.Chew sugarless gum
3.Avoid alcohol and caffeine
4.Avoid smoking
5.Avoid overly salted foods
6.Drink plenty of water
7.Avoid citrus juices (tomato, orange, grapefruit)
8.Avoid dry foods, such as toast or crackers
9.Use over-the-counter moisture replacement therapies
10.Visit the dentist regularly
11.Use supplement fluorides
posted by Chris O'Neil at 11:15 AM
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Tamarac, FL 33321
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