Understanding Dry Mouth: Symptoms and Solutions | Ottawa Dentist

Dry mouth, medically known as xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands in the mouth don’t produce enough saliva. This can be an uncomfortable condition that affects many aspects of daily life. Understanding the symptoms and finding effective ways to manage dry mouth can significantly improve one’s quality of life.

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Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth presents with a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is, unsurprisingly, a dry feeling in the mouth. This dryness can make swallowing, speaking, and tasting food difficult. Individuals may also experience a sticky or thick sensation in their mouth, dry or sore throat, and a burning or tingling feeling on the tongue. Additionally, the lips may become cracked, and there may be a persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene. People with dry mouth might notice an increased need to drink water, especially during meals, to help with chewing and swallowing.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Several factors can cause dry mouth. It is often a side effect of certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure drugs. Medical conditions such as diabetes, Sjögren’s syndrome, and Parkinson’s disease can also lead to dry mouth. Furthermore, treatments like radiation therapy for cancer can damage the salivary glands, reducing saliva production.

Overcoming Dry Mouth

Managing dry mouth involves addressing its underlying cause and finding ways to stimulate saliva production or keep the mouth moist. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep the mouth moist. Sipping water frequently can alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth.
2. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can stimulate saliva flow. Xylitol-containing products are particularly effective.
3. Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air, especially at night, can help prevent the mouth from becoming too dry.
4. Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter saliva substitutes or oral rinses can provide temporary relief from dryness.
5. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks: Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, which can exacerbate dry mouth, is beneficial. Spicy or salty foods can also irritate a dry mouth.
6. Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and using alcohol-free mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which dry mouth can increase the risk for.

Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential if dry mouth persists. They can identify the root cause and recommend appropriate treatments, ensuring better oral health and overall well-being.

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.