When you don’t have the proper amount of spit to keep your mouth moist, you may have a condition called dry mouth. Simple things such as chewing, swallowing and talking can become tough as a result. But what’s more, having a dehydrated mouth can raise your risk of dental cavities and tooth erosion; when saliva – which washes out dangerous bacteria and contains protective minerals – is absent, your mouth becomes a minefield!
While the elderly seem more prone to it, dry mouth is not necessarily part of getting old. (Medications frequently used in old age are, however, more likely to lead to side effects of dry mouth.) Below are some actual causes of dry mouth:
-Cancer treatment. Both the medications used in conjunction with chemo treatment and the radiation treatment itself may impact problems impacting dry mouth.
-Damaged nerves. When the salivary glands’ nerves are injured by accidents involving the neck and/or head, the saliva glands may not create the same levels of saliva as they did prior to the injuries.
-Diseases. There are many diseases and disorders that impact the salivary glands, the part of your oral system which produces saliva. HIV, AIDS and Sjogren’s Syndrome are all diseases that can lead to dry mouth.
-Side effects of medicine. Many medicines, such as high-blood-pressure medications, have side effects resulting in dry mouth.
When you come to CrossPointe Dental, you can be sure that we’ll check you for dry mouth. If you think you may suffer from dry mouth, don’t hesitate to call us at 801-224-7337 so we can pencil in your next appointment with Dr. Damon P. Swenson in our Orem, Utah, office. The whole team at CrossPointe Dental is ready to help you get your dry mouth under control.