Dry mouth is a fairly common condition. It occurs when we fail to produce enough saliva which leaves a parched feeling in our mouth. Medically known as xerostomia, dry mouth can have numerous underlying causes, such as the use of antidepressants, conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome , diabetes, or hypertension. Smoking and alcohol also contribute to this condition. For some people, it can also be triggered by certain medications. Anxiety and nervousness have also been known dry mouth. Dry mouth can be easily treated if you follow these simple dos and don’ts.

Increase your water intake. Dehydration leads to a dry mouth; so a few sips of water now and then help keep your mouth moist and help produce saliva. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by flushing out food particles and neutralizing acids. Sipping on crushed ice is a cool alternative if you find drinking water too boring. The melting ice will keep your mouth hydrated and moist.

Keep a pack of sugar-free gum or lozenges handy. Chewing and sucking on them will accelerate saliva production and relieve dry mouth.

Cut back on alcoholic drinks, caffeine, and quit smoking. Alcohol causes dehydration which does not bode well for dry mouth sufferers. The same goes for drinks high in sugar and caffeine. Go easy on coffee and soda and you will notice a marked difference in your dry mouth symptoms. Smoking aggravates dry mouth problems. Consider quitting or slowing down to alleviate dry mouth.

Use a humidifier at night. It will help you breathe easy, reducing your chances of breathing through your mouth that usually results in a dry mouth the following day.

Dry mouth is often a side effect of drugs such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and those used to treat diabetes and high blood pressure. Consult with your healthcare provider if you feel medication is causing dry mouth.

Exercise good dental practices. Brush twice a day, and make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride and xylitol. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health , xylitol can greatly reduce the symptoms associated with dry mouth. Another good idea is to floss regularly. Persistent dry mouth can also cause bad breath so it’s always a good idea to prioritize dental hygiene.

The tips listed above are easy to follow and will help relieve your dry mouth and the uncomfortable sensation that accompanies it. But if your symptoms persist, it could signal an underlying health problem. Contact us for a complete dental evaluation and advice on the various treatment options available to you.

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