Dry Mouth Treatment Options

Dry mouth is a very common condition that many people don't realize they have until it causes more serious dental problems. It can alter the appearance of teeth and gums, or in some cases cause pain and swelling in the mouth or even tooth decay. If left untreated, dry mouth may lead to periodontal disease. There are a wide variety of treatment options and products available for dry mouth.

Symptoms

The first step to treating dry mouth is knowing what it is. Common symptoms include excessive plaque, cavities, bad breath, bleeding of the gums, cracked lips and a constant dry feeling in the mouth.

Causes

Dry mouth can be caused by many things. You need to determine the cause of your dry mouth to choose the best treatment. Often it is caused by a health-related situation that can be changed, such as medication. If you are taking any medications you should consult with you doctor to see if dry mouth may be one of the side-effects. If it is, you doctor may be able to change your medication, and no further treatment will be necessary. If the dry mouth is caused by an existing medical condition that cannot be changed you will need to start treatment.

Oral Hygiene Products

One of the simplest treatment methods is to use oral hygiene products created specifically for the treating of dry mouth. You can purchase toothpaste, mouthwash or a mouth spray at almost any drug store. These products contain the active ingredient xylitol, which naturally stimulates the production of saliva. Many of them also use an enzyme system to break down plaque and fluoride to prevent cavities. Over time, with continuous use, these products have been proven to significantly reduce the effects of dry mouth.

Over the Counter Medications

You may want to try an over the counter medication if the use of oral hygiene products is not enough. The most common form of medication for dry mouth is lozenges that dissolve in the mouth. They are effective because they stay in the mouth for a longer period of time and give the ingredients more time to work. On average, one lozenge can last anywhere from one to three hours. You may also want to try using an artificial saliva substitute, which can also be purchased in the drugstore.

Prescription Treatments

You may decide that a prescription treatment would be best for you after consulting with your oral hygienist. There are two options available. One is an electrical stimulant that is used to stimulate the saliva glands in the mouth, and the other is a pharmacological stimulant that is taken orally. Before considering either of these options it is always best to talk to your dentist.

Prevention/Solution

After starting any treatment, be sure to maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent the symptoms of dry mouth from returning. Drink water regularly. Avoid sugary foods and candy. If you chew gum, choose sugar-free. Refrain from smoking. Avoid caffeinated beverages, and do not use mouthwashes containing alcohol.

Resources

• Biotene
• Salase
• Epic Dental