Although dry mouth syndrome, or xerostomia, may seem like a minor problem, it can greatly affect your oral health. When left untreated, dry mouth can increase your risk of tooth decay and cause problems with eating and speaking. When you visit your dentist , tell them of any new diagnoses you may have or medications you may be taking. Your dentist uses your medical history to determine the underlying causes of your dry mouth and develop a treatment plan.
Medications
Certain medications can cause dry mouth syndrome, including antidepressants, pain relievers, diuretics, and bronchodilators. During your visit, tell your dentist about any over-the-counter drugs or supplements you take. Cold medications, including antihistamines and decongestants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also lead to xerostomia.
Medical Conditions
There are a wide range of medical conditions that can cause dry mouth ; inform your dentist of all other medical conditions you have, even if they may seem unrelated. For example, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, and anxiety disorders may be to blame. Sometimes, a medical condition might cause you to feel as if your mouth is drier than usual, even when it isn’t. Examples include Alzheimer’s disease and a stroke.
Lifestyle Factors
Your dentist will likely ask you about your lifestyle habits. All types of tobacco products can cause dry mouth. Mouth breathing also prematurely dries out your mouth.
Treatment Options
Your treatment plan depends on the underlying causes of your dry mouth syndrome. If you use tobacco, talk to a doctor about assistance with smoking cessation. If you have a medical condition, work with your doctor to manage it. Additionally, your dentist might recommend chewing sugar-free gum, sipping water frequently throughout the day, and using saliva substitute products.
Keep your smile beautiful with regular dentist visits. Schedule your next dentist visit today with University Associates in Dentistry . You can reach our Chicago practice at (312) 704-5511 or visit our website to learn more about our services, including dental implants.
