Different Ways of Treating Dry Mouth
Dry mouth isn't pleasant. You've no doubt felt that feeling before. The thing about dry mouth is that it's more than just an annoyance and inconvenience. It can actually be the sign of a major oral health or general health problem. That's why people who experience persistent or chronic dry mouth should really meet with a cosmetic dentist to find out the cause of the dry mouth and undergo dental treatment.
There are a number of different treatments out there to address dry mouth, which we'd like to look over right now.
About Dry Mouth
First things first, let's look at dry mouth itself. Dry mouth refers to a lack of moisture inside of the mouth. This makes it difficult to eat and speak, and can cause bad breath since the dryness of the mouth makes conditions for oral bacteria ideal. Dry mouth can be very uncomfortable as well.
Common Causes of Dry Mouth
Some of the most common causes of dry mouth include:
- Dehydration
- Blockage of salivary glands
- Advanced age
- Side effects of medication
- Side effects of systemic illness
- Oral cancers/tumors
The best way to treat dry mouth is to identify the root cause of the dry mouth and then undergo the proper medical or general dental care treatments to address these causes.
Treating Dry Mouth
For patients who experience block of the salivary glands, we'll often recommend that they suck on sour candies (preferably sugar-free). This will increase saliva production and often help remove the blockage of the salivary gland in the process.
In terms of serious health issues that cause dry mouth to occur, speaking with a general practitioner is the best option as he or she will have the equipment and resources available to provide proper treatment.
Improving Moisture Levels in the Mouth
Many cosmetic and restorative dentists will recommend that patients remain well-hydrated throughout the day. This often helps reduce dry mouth. If this alone does not work, there are also artificial saliva products out there that can increase moisture in the mouth. These come in gel, spray, and lozenge forms.
Treating the Effects of Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can often exacerbate tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth erosion. There are various kinds of dental restoration therapies that we can use in order to treat these problems, such as inlays, onlays, dental crowns, and gum grafting. These will all be discussed in greater detail during your visit.
Combining Care for Full Dental Health Restoration
Often times dentists will combine various treatments in order to help patients achieve optimal dental health. By addressed the root cause of the problem and then the effects of dry mouth, your dentist can restore your overall dental health and give you a great smile that's healthy in the process.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Care Treatment
For more information about treating dry mouth and your many other options for advanced dental care treatment, be sure to contact our Fountain Valley cosmetic dentistry center today. The entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health in the process.
