There is a good chance that you have experienced dry mouth at least once in your life. Maybe you felt as though you were parched with thirst after a strenuous workout. Or perhaps you found yourself in a scary, stressful situation that left your throat and tongue feeling like a desert. But, what if the issue of dryness became an ongoing problem? Would you be able to distinguish a temporary dry mouth from a chronic dry mouth? Virginia Beach dentists say that knowing the difference could help you to avoid a long list of dental problems.

How does dry mouth affect your oral health?

• Acidic, destructive bacteria can reproduce very quickly in a dry oral environment.
• The teeth can be directly attacked by the acid that is produced by plaque bacteria.
• Chewing and swallowing are difficult and uncomfortable when the mouth is dry.
• Cavities, tooth sensitivity, and unpleasant breath are the common side effects of dry mouth.
• Tender, irritated gum tissue is often a symptom of dry mouth.

What can be done to manage dry mouth?

• Sip water during the day and overnight to keep your mouth moisturized.
• Limit your consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. These chemicals are known to contribute to oral dryness.
• Practice proper, thorough, and frequent oral hygiene to minimize oral bacteria.
• Chew sugarless gum or suck sugar free candies to promote the flow of saliva after meals or snacks.
• Try moisturizing mouth gels and rinses to soothe irritated oral tissues and neutralize acidity in the mouth.
• Talk to your dentist about oral dryness. The dentist needs to know more about your health and lifestyle habits in order to provide you with a specific strategy for managing your dry mouth.

Is dry mouth putting your oral health at risk?

Virginia Beach dentists recommend that you schedule an appointment today for a full examination.