Most people give very little thought to the idea of dry mouth, but it is a common issue. In fact, dry mouth can lead to a lot of serious dental concerns that you have never considered.

If you experience dry mouth, you may wonder if you should have concerns. This is what you should know about dry mouth.

What Exactly Is Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is a common problem that results when the body does not produce the saliva it needs. You might move your tongue around your mouth and feel as if there is no moisture. This can make it difficult to talk and eat, and it can also cause bad breath.

Why Is Dry Mouth a Problem?

People with dry mouth are much more likely to experience cavities and tooth decay. They are also much more likely to experience an infection of the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth.

Dry mouth also comes with a variety of other symptoms. These include lack of taste, dry nose, sore throat, chapped lips, tongue ulcers, and frequent thirst. You may experience tooth pain and sensitivity if you have dry mouth, indicating that the issue is leading to decay.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

There are several causes associated with dry mouth, and in many cases, several issues work together to create a severe problem.

Sometimes medication is to blame. Many different medications cause dry mouth, which means that many people are experiencing this problem with no real understanding of why. If you take several medications, you may be at higher risk.

Sometimes dehydration leads to dry mouth. You may relieve the symptoms by drinking a lot of water and ensuring that you are maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine. Some people also benefit from chewing gum; sugarless gum is the best option for your oral health.

Some medications can also be used to add moisture to the mouth, which is especially useful if you are not able to quit using the medications that are causing some of your ongoing dry mouth symptoms.

What Should You Do About Dry Mouth?

You should speak to your dentist about your dry mouth. If you are experiencing this problem, your dentist may offer you some lifestyle advice and treat any oral health issues causing your dry mouth. Make an appointment today to learn more about your dental options.

To learn more, contact a family dental clinic like Sweeney Utterback Dentistry.