Does Your Mouth Feel Like the Sahara Desert?

Does your mouth feel like it’s as dry as a desert? You are not alone. Over 25 million Americans suffer from dry mouth. The actual discomfort associated with dry mouth is not the only problem. Other problems that accompany dry mouth include difficulty chewing and swallowing, an increase in dental decay and gum disease and bad breath.

So why do so many people have to live with “cottonmouth?”

According to the Food and Drug Administration, over 400 medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can lead to dry mouth. The list includes 8 of the 10 most frequently used prescriptions. It’s also caused by mouth breathing, dehydration and decreased salivary flow due to aging.

Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking are also among the leading causes of this problem. So if you need another reason to stop smoking and cut down on your drinking there it is.

There are several things you can do to reduce the damage caused by dry mouth:

1-Chewing gum that contains Xylitol (we discussed this in a previous blog)

2- Drinking  plenty  water to stay hydrated

3- Breath through your nose not your mouth (that’s a hard one)

3- Frequent brushing and rinsing with a  fluoride toothpaste and rinse

4- Daily Flossing

5- Using a room vaporizer to add moisture to the air in your home

Since dry mouth can also be a sign of a serious illness and cause an increase in cavities and gum disease, excellent oral hygiene and regular dental exams are a must. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us at 845-471-4383 to set up an appointment or visit our website at http://www.docwillo.com