Dry Mouth
Dry Mouth Leichhardt
Xerostomia (commonly called dry mouth) happens when the salivary glands in your mouth don’t make enough saliva to keep your mouth moist.
This is often a side effect of specific medications, aging issues or as a result of radiation therapy for cancer.
To find out what causes your dry mouth, your Leichhardt dentist will likely review your medical history and all medication you’re taking, including over-the-counter medicines, and physically examine your mouth.
Dry Mouth Causes
There are many factors to dry mouth.
Some of the causes of dry mouth are as follows:
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Smoking and using other tobacco products
- Taking tranquilisers
- Extreme exercise
- Taking certain medications, such as some antihistamines and appetite suppressants
- Aging
- Snoring
Dry Mouth Symptoms
- Bad breath
- Lipstick sticking in the mouth
- Frequent gum disease
- Tooth decay and plaque
- Problems in speaking
- Sticky saliva
- Sore throat
Dry Mouth Treatment
Your treatment depends on what causes your dry mouth.
Your Leichhardt dentist may:
- Change medications that cause dry mouth.
- Stimulate saliva production.
- Prevent tooth decay.
Your Leichhardt dentist may recommend using artificial saliva products.
These products can be bought over-the-counter in a rinse or spray form.
Toothpaste, mouthwashes, and gels that are specially formulated for individuals with dry mouth are also available.
Here are some home remedies for dry mouth:
- Drink a lot of water
- Suck on sugarless candies
- Improve overall oral care
- Use an alcohol-free mouth wash
- Chew sugarless gum
Avoid the following:
- Breathing through your mouth
- Smoking tobacco
- Dry foods
- Spicy foods
- Sugary foods and drinks
Alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether, and caffeine should be only be consumed in moderation.
Dry Mouth Treatment in Leichhardt
Having dry mouth can be a very embarrassing experience. Find out how we can help you at My Local Dentists Leichhardt.
Request an appointment with your dentist in Leichhardt today.
Call us on (02) 9171 0840 or request your appointment online.
We are located at Shop 48, Leichhardt Marketplace Shopping Centre, 122-138 Flood Street in Leichhardt.