Dry mouth occurs when your salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, resulting in a persistent dry feeling in your mouth. If you have this experience, please notify us at Oval Dental Clinic.
Xerostomia, which is pronounced zero-STOE-me-uh, is the medical term for dry mouth. It’s a known side effect of certain medications, and it’s also common in cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. It can also be caused by a condition of the salivary glands, though this is less common.
Causes:
There are numerous medications that list dry mouth as a side effect. These include both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Many drugs, including antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers, can cause it.
Dry mouth is also common in the elderly. Older people frequently take more medication than they did when they were younger. The body isn’t always as efficient as it once was in processing these medications.
Tobacco and alcohol use, as well as so-called recreational drugs, can all cause symptoms of dry mouth.
Chemotherapy has the potential to affect the salivary glands and their ability to produce saliva. When the treatment is finished, it may return to normal.
COMPLICATIONS:
Dry mouth, in addition to causing discomfort, can lead to an increase in plaque on the teeth. This, in turn, can result in tooth decay and gum disease. Yeast infections and mouth sores are also possible.
Because chewing and swallowing are more difficult for people who have dry mouth, they may also have poor nutrition.
The treatment for dry mouth is determined by the cause. If you have persistent dry mouth and are unsure why, please contact Oval Dental Clinic.
Patients from all over the world come to us for general and family dentistry, as well as cosmetic dentistry and much more.
Call us to set up an appointment today! 043 400 900