Dry mouth is the feeling of not having enough saliva in the mouth, otherwise known as xerostomia. Dry mouth is often due to the production of too little saliva, but can also be a result of changes in saliva. All people feel that they have dry mouth from time to time, for example in connection with nervousness. But, if you deal with it constantly or frequently, it can be very uncomfortable and it can lead to serious health problems. Around 20 percent of the adult population is often bothered by dry mouth. Dry mouth is most common among older people. If you suffer from dry mouth, contact your local Dentist in Turnersville today.
What causes dry mouth?
It is common to feel dry mouth when you are nervous, stressed or anxious. Nevertheless, there are many different causes of dry mouth. By far, the most common cause is the use of medications, including antidepressants, anxiety, asthma and allergy, high blood pressure, as well as morphine or morphine-like drugs. Chemotherapy can also cause dry mouth and decreased saliva production. Also radiotherapy in the head and neck area often leads to excessive dryness and markedly decreased saliva production. Dry mouth can also be a symptom of a condition such as diabetes and certain rheumatic diseases, especially Sjogren’s syndrome, where the glandular tissue is attacked by inflammation. If you suffer from any of these issues, Schedule appointement with your Dentist in Turnersville.
Symptoms of low saliva production
When saliva production is low or symptoms begin to emerge, you should contact your dentist. The symptoms may be:
* Dry, sticky and burning sensation in the mouth
* Dry and sometimes burning sensation in the throat
* Dry and chapped lips
* Problems with speech and a feeling that the tongue sticks to the palate
* Need to drink water with your meal to better chew and swallow it
* Need to drink water at night
* Need to eat sweets, lozenges, etc. to promote the formation of saliva
* Impaired taste
* Bad Breath
* Tooth decay
* Frequent mouth ulcers
* Frequent fungal infections of the mouth
* Gingivitis
* Problems with maintaining dentures
It’s very important to speak with your Dentist in Turnersville if you experience any of the above problems. There may be underlying issues that cause these as well. Click here, if you may want to speak with your Teeth Whitening Dentist for tips, too.
