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Dry Mouth
At one time or another everyone has experienced dry mouth. Often referred to as cotton mouth, it has many causes. The most common cause results from taking most over-the-counter and prescription medications including vitamins, antidepressants, Parkinson's medications, antihistamines, painkillers, and blood pressure medications. Other causes include nervousness, dehydration, times of stress, as a result of radiation or chemotherapy, and as a natural part of the aging process.
Why is this significant?
Saliva aids in digestion and acts as a buffer in our mouths. It helps to maintain a healthy pH level and as a natural cleaning mechanism. It is also the primary facilitator in tasting food. A dry oral environment can cause tooth decay, tissue irritation and sluffing, as well as malnutrition as a result of not easting enough. The former is a serious problem facing the elderly. As saliva production decreases the ability to taste food also decreases this leads to a decrease in food intake.
Relief is available and starts at home. By increasing your fluid intake and reducing caffeine consumption salivary flow can increase. Taking small sips of water throughout! the day will help to maintain a moist environment. There are many new products available through prescription and over-the-counter to help increase actual salivary flow. The most common is the use of gums or candies containing Xylotol®. Wrigley's Orbits Gum® and Carefree Koolers® are two popular gums found at most grocery and drug stores. Using a toothpaste containing baking soda can also bring relief. The doctors at Art of Modern Dentistry would be happy to prescribe a saliva substitute for you to use.
As medication become more readily available dry mouth cases will only increase. It is important to provide a list of your current medications to your dentist so we may evaluate your oral condition and provide a proactive solution.
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