DRY MOUTH OR XEROSTOMIA  ADVICE HOME

This is the condition of not having enough saliva or spit to keep your mouth wet.

Symptoms are:

Mouth sores

Saliva keeps your mouth wet and it helps to digest your food. It prevents decay and gum disease by bathing your teeth to neutralize acids and it removes plaque. It prevents infection by controlling the bacteria and fungal levels in your mouth and aids in chewing and swallowing to allow for a proper nutrient intake.


CAUSES:

Improperly functioning salivary glands due to diseases such as Sjogrens Syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Parkinsons Disease or diabetes, etc; or medications such as high blood pressure pills or antidepressants; radiation therapy or chemotherapy damage during cancer treatment; nerve damage to head or neck may decrease salivary flow.


WHAT CAN BE DONE:

The treatment depends on the cause, so see your medical doctor or dentist to determine a course of action. If it is due to a medication, the dosage or drug itself may be changed. If the salivary glands are working, but at a reduced capacity, certain medications can be used to stimulate salivary flow. Synthetic saliva products such as Biotene, Salivart or Mouthkote can moisten your mouth. Sip water or a sugarless fluid with food to aid in chewing, swallowing and taste. Between meals sip water frequently. Avoid caffeine in coffee, tea and colas. Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow. Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Use a humidifier at night.


TO KEEP YOUR TEETH HEALTHY:


Gently brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss every night at bedtime. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and mouth rinse. Avoid sticky sugary foods or brush immediately afterward. Visit your dentist every 6 months to have an exam.