Is Your Mouth As Dry As Dust? Read On…

If it seems that you are more than just thirsty, you can’t wet your whistle, your mouth is sticky and dry, your saliva is thick and stringy – and to top it off, you have chronic bad breath – you may have Xerostomia, also called dry mouth syndrome, a very common health issue that arises from the reduction of saliva levels. Saliva is important because it produces enzymes that help you taste and digest food and it also keeps the bacteria in your mouth in check.

When you suffer from dry mouth, you may experience chronic bad breath, difficulty wearing dentures, a metallic or bitter taste in your mouth and difficulties eating or speaking.
The skin around your mouth may be tight and dry; the corners of your mouth may get sore, your lips may crack and your tongue may feel rough and dry.
Your symptoms may worsen at night because saliva flow normally decreases when you sleep. Dry mouth can also make your voice rough and harsh and you may have a constant tickle in your throat.
Chronic dry mouth may also contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

What causes dry mouth?

•A temporary illness that requires the use of medications
•Advancing age
•Smoking or using smokeless tobacco
•Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy
•Autoimmune conditions like HIV or Sjogren’s syndrome
•Health issues such as diabetes and Parkinson’s disease

If you are experiencing the symptoms of dry mouth, it’s important to get regular dental check-ups, brush and floss daily and rinse with a non-alcohol mouthwash. It also helps to sip water throughout the day. Sugar-free gum and candies may help by triggering your mouth to produce saliva. There are also medications that can help with the symptoms of dry mouth and Dr. Holbrook can assess your symptoms and may prescribe accordingly.

If you are suffering from chronic dry mouth and would like to learn more, call for a consultation appointment with Dr. Holbrook. Dry Mouth is a treatable condition and we can answer your questions and offer solutions: (505) 881-1159.