“Dry Mouth”

“Dry Mouth” Can Lead to Serious Oral Issues

 

Some medications and health conditions, such as diabetes, can cause your mouth to become overly dry.
Symptoms of dry mouth:
⦁ Frequent thirst, bad breath, cracked lips and sore throat
How dry mouth affects you:
⦁ Causes painful and costly root cavities
⦁ Leads to gum disease, which is linked to heart disease, stroke and diabetic complications
What to do if you have “dry mouth”
⦁ Drink extra water (fluoridated water is best)
⦁ Use a saliva substitute
⦁ Chew sugarless gums and mints (especially those with xylitol, a natural sweetener that protects teeth).
⦁ Protect your teeth with fluoride (rinses, toothpaste, varnish)
⦁ Get regular oral health checkups
⦁ Tell your dentist and physician that your mouth is dry
What you should avoid:
⦁ Candy and cough drops (unless they are sugar free)
⦁ High sugar drinks including juice, sports drinks and sodas (even diet)
⦁ Drinks with caffeine or alcohol
⦁ Tobacco
Your oral health is important: make sure you brush twice a day, floss daily, get regular oral health checkups and engage in smart snacking.