Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common and uncomfortable condition that affects many people. It may not be the most painful and inconvenient thing to be dealing with, sure, but dry mouth can actually lead to a variety of issues such as difficulty swallowing, bad breath, and an increased risk of dental cavities. So, if you’re ready to seek treatment, then you may be wondering: where do I go? Do I need to schedule an appointment with the doctor, or can a dentist help with dry mouth?
Well, the good news is that you likely won’t need to worry about getting in with the doctor – a dentist should be able to do the trick! In this blog post, we will explore how a dentist can assist with dry mouth, and provide some tips for managing this condition.
What Is Dry Mouth?
In short, dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands aren’t producing enough saliva to keep the mouth comfortably moist. And since there are several common causes, it’s important to first identify the underlying cause of your dry mouth in order to effectively manage it.
Dry mouth may result from:
- Medications (such as antihistamines and antidepressants)
- Medical conditions (such as diabetes and Sjogren’s syndrome)
- Dehydration,
- Smoking
- Aging
- Stress and anxiety
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Mouth?
A dry feeling in the mouth isn’t the only potential symptom of this common problem. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and may also include:
- Cracked lips
- A rough tongue
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing food
- An increased risk of cavities and gum disease
In fact, if left untreated, dry mouth can also lead to more serious dental issues, such as tooth decay and gum infections. This is where the dentist comes into play.
How Can a Dentist Help with Dry Mouth?
Since dental problems are a potential symptom, dentists can play an essential role in managing dry mouth. They can help to both identify the underlying cause of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of dryness, and discuss your medical history to determine potential causes. Then, depending on the severity of your dry mouth, your dentist may recommend lifestyle changes such as drinking more water or avoiding certain medications known to cause dryness (as long as it’s okay with your doctor, of course).
In addition to lifestyle modifications, dentists can also provide treatments to help alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth. These treatments may include prescribing artificial saliva products to help lubricate the mouth, fluoride treatments to prevent cavities caused by decreased saliva production, or recommending over-the-counter oral moisturizers or sprays.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist. They can help identify the underlying cause of your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
By working closely with your dentist, you can effectively manage dry mouth and improve your overall oral health. So, don’t let dry mouth impact your quality of life – contact a dentist today!
Ready to address your dry mouth? If so, we’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Shelburne Village Dental, and book your appointment today.
