Xerostamia,
a medical term for dry mouth, is caused when there isn’t enough saliva in the
mouth. Quite common in old population, the condition is the result of
dysfunction of salivary glands. There are quite a few symptoms of dry mouth
including bad breath, cracked lips, speaking difficulties, etc.
To understand the condition better,
let’s first take a look at some causes of dry mouth and then at some treatment
and drugs that your dentist might prescribe:
Causes
Following
are some of its causes:
Medications
Many
medications, including those treating depression and anxiety, cause dry mouth
as a side-effect. Moreover, use of some muscle relaxants and pain treatment
drugs, can result in symptoms of dry mouth.
Aging
Aging is a
cause of dry mouth because older people are more likely to have medications and
other health conditions that cause dry mouth.
Cancer
Treatment
Drugs used
during the middle of chemotherapy decrease production of saliva. The effect may
be temporary and may subside after the treatment is over. Radiation dose to
your head or neck can negatively impact salivary glands and may cause permanent
damage to it.
Smoking
Use of
tobacco is one of the common causes of dry mouth. People who regularly smoke
have often complained about symptoms of dry mouth.
Other
Medical Conditions
Diseases
such as HIV/AIDS and Sjogren’s syndrome can cause dry mouth symptoms. Other
conditions like heart stroke and Alzheimer’s disease may lead to false
perceptions of dry mouth.
Treatment
and Medications
Depending
on the cause of dry mouth, your physician or dentist may treat your condition
accordingly.
Alter
Medications
If your dry
mouth is caused by any of the medications, your doctor may change dosage or
switch to an equally effective alternative.
Prescribe
Products That Can Lubricate Your Mouth
Your
dentist or physician may recommend some over-the-counter products or prescribe
medication such as, Salogen or Evoxac, to ensure that the flow of saliva is
retained. Moreover, use of artificial saliva or moisturizer may also be
recommended.
Recommend
Fluoride Treatment for Cavities Protection
Since dry
mouth can lead to cavity formation, your dentist might give you fluoride trays.
These trays are filled with fluoride and you have to wear them over your teeth every
night for some time. Use of antibacterial oral rinse like Chlorhexidine may
also be recommended.
We at
Advanced Dental Center understand each and every aspect of dry mouth. Our emergency dentists are professionally trained with years of experience under their belts.
Over the years, we have provided exceptional dental services to our
patients in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
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