Have Chronic Dry Mouth? What to Do

Dry mouth is a problem that some people experience on a regular basis. Dry mouth can have implications for your dental health, and can affect everything from the freshness of your breath to the health of your teeth and gums.

Dry mouth is a problem and can make taking care of your teeth more difficult. Knowing the cause and what you can do about dry mouth is important.

What’s the Problem With Dry Mouth? 

Your saliva helps clean your teeth and keep your mouth healthy. When there is insufficient saliva in your mouth to clean your teeth, you’re at higher risk for problems like cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth can also give you chronic bad breath, which can impact your interpersonal relationships.

Know the Potential Causes

Find out what’s causing your dry mouth. There are many things that can cause dry mouth for patients, including:

• Medications
• Smoking
• Aging
• Chemotherapy

If you’re not sure what’s causing your dry mouth, bring it up with your dentist in Mountain View, CA, the next time you come in for an appointment. Your dentist can help you identify the cause. In some cases, dry mouth can be fixed by making lifestyle changes.

2. Stay Hydrated

If your dry mouth can’t be eliminated with lifestyle changes, then it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink water regularly and bring water bottles with you when you go out, so you’ll always have a water source when you’re going through the course of your daily life. Be sure to drink water regularly throughout meals to help wash down food and rinse your teeth and gums.

3. See the Dentist Regularly

Dry mouth puts you at risk for poor oral hygiene, so it’s important to see your dentist for regular dental cleanings in Mountain View, CA. Unless you’ve been told otherwise, you should see the dentist for cleanings every six months. Stay on top of appointments to avoid problems like cavities and gum disease.

Have questions about your dry mouth? Contact the dental professionals at Dr Joseph M Cassara. We’re happy to answer your questions about dental care and can help you maintain fresh, pleasant breath.