Nearly 10% of adults and over 25% of older adults suffer from dry mouth. A dry mouth may not sound like a big deal, but it can be a huge problem for your teeth and gums. If you suffer from dry mouth, here is some information on why dry mouth may be a problem for your oral health.
Should I Worry about My Dry Mouth?
If you suffer from dry mouth only occasionally, you most likely have nothing to worry about. However, if dry mouth is a daily problem, there is some cause for concern. Your mouth has millions of bacteria living inside it. Luckily, your body has developed a natural defender against bacteria, and that is saliva.
Saliva helps to flush the bad bacteria out of your mouth each day. However, if you don't have enough saliva, the bacteria can stay on your teeth or gums and multiply. Bacteria is the leading cause of both tooth decay and gum disease, so it is really important your mouth stays hydrated.
What to Do about Dry Mouth
There are several things you can do to help your dry mouth. First, you need to hydrate your mouth with water. Drink as much water as you can during the day. Plain water is best, as sports drinks contain a lot of sugar that allows bacteria to grow.
You can also try over-the-counter remedies for dry mouth. Sugarless chewing gum is a great way to stimulate saliva production without adding sugar to your diet.
Reduce your intake of caffeine because caffeine reduces the amount of saliva produced. You may also want to talk to your doctor because you may have some medications with dry mouth as a side effect.
If you have questions about your dry mouth, you can visit us for more information. You can also call us to book an appointment.
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Contact Us4455 E. Camelback Road Suite #E-100 Phoenix, AZ 85018(480) 504-0506
Dental Implants | Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona At Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center AZ, our team offers high-quality and affordable treatment options for patients with oral health problems. Implant and Periodontal Wellness Center of Arizona, 4455 E. Camelback Rd #E-100, Phoenix, AZ 85018, (480) 504-0506, azimplantsolutions.com, 12/6/2024, Page Terms:Periodontist Phoenix AZ,