Dry mouth is a very common condition among older adults and some people with certain medical conditions. If you are experiencing dry mouth symptoms and visit your dentist, they will probably check you for bacterial or fungal infections of the mouth. They will also take into account your medical history and ask whether you are taking certain medications, which can exacerbate dry mouth symptoms.
Medications
There are certain medications which can cause dry mouth conditions. Your doctor may be able to prescribe you an alternative medication that does not lead to these side effects. Of course, you should never alter or stop taking your medication without consulting with your doctor.
Increasing Saliva Production
If you are experiencing dry mouth, then your dentist or doctor may recommend ways in which you can increase saliva production. These may be as simple as chewing gum or there may be certain products that you can use which act as artificial saliva. There are also some medicinal mouthwashes available that are able to restore some of the moisture to your mouth and prevent dry mouth symptoms from bothering you. Dry mouth treatment plans will usually involve the following procedures:
Replacing lost fluids in your mouth
Increasing the production and flow of saliva
Limiting dental cavities, which you are more likely to develop with dry mouth
Controlling infections in your mouth
Further Tips For Treating Dry Mouth
When you are suffering from dry mouth, there are a couple of extra things that you can do to maximize saliva production and reduce the symptoms of the condition:
Chew gum to stimulate the salivary glands
Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Eat hard candies but try to find sugar-free versions as sugar can actually worsen dry mouth
Cut down on spicy, sugary, and acidic foods because they can affect your salivary glands
Rinse with a mouthwash on a regular basis avoid an alcohol-based mouthwash
Quit smoking or tobacco use as this is a major cause of dry mouth
Reduce your caffeine consumption
Brush your teeth at least twice a day to eradicate bacteria
Eat fresh foods, especially celery and carrots, to improve salivary gland function
Breathe through your nose and not your mouth
Cut down alcohol consumption
Following the above tips will help you to successfully manage dry mouth symptoms and protect your oral health from developing bacterial infections or tooth decay.
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Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.