DRY MOUTH
About 10% of general population and 25% of older people experience a dry mouth (xerostomia). Rather than being a disease in itself, it is usually a symptom of an underlying problem.
Dry mouth can be caused by:
- Prescription medications – antidepressants, decongestants, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, appetite suppressants, diuretics
- Illegal drugs – cocaine, ice, heroine
- Dehydration
- Autoimmune diseases – eg. Sjögren’s syndrome
- Infections of salivary glands – eg. Mumps
- Salivary duct obstruction
- Nerve problems/ damage to facial nerve controlling salivary glands
- Cancer treatment – chemo or radiotherapy
- Habits – eg. breathing through the mouth
- Hormone changes – eg. in pregnancy or menopause
Signs and Symptoms include:
- Dryness and sticky feeling in the mouth
- Chapped dry lips
- Rough, dry tongue
- Bad breath
- Waking up at night feeling thirsty
- Problems speaking
- Difficulty eating dry foods
- Problems wearing dentures
- Mouth ulcers
- Susceptibility to oral thrush infections
- Burning sensation in the mouth
- High rate of tooth decay
- Inflamed, bleeding gums
Diagnosis may include:
- Physical exam of the mouth to check for dry, rough cheeks, lips and tongue
- Tooth examination – excessive tooth decay especially around the gum margin
- Salivary tests – eg. rolling out lower lip and patting dry. Normally it should remoisten within 30 seconds
- Checking medical history, including any diseases/conditions and medicines being taken
Treatment:
- Changes to medicines or their doses
- Saliva substitutes
- Dry mouth products which include lubricants – toothpastes, gels, gum, mouthwashes
- Treatment of underlying conditions – eg. Antibiotics for infections, surgery for salivary glands blockage
- Increasing fluid intake
- Avoiding crunchy, dry, sugary, acidic foods and drinks
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, mint-flavoured substances
- Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow
- Following strict oral hygiene protocol including fluoride products to prevent cavities and gum disease
- Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and early treatment if necessary
Do you think you may suffer from a dry mouth? Please contact Elwood Dental Group on 9531 6387 or email us on info@elwooddental.com.au for more information or to book an appointment .