Causes of Dry Mouth Condition
Saliva is usually produced throughout the day and lubricates the mouth, assists in the digestive process, and helps rinse plaque from the teeth. Dry mouth is an uncomfortable condition, but it can also have serious consequences for oral health as well. When saliva production is insufficient tooth decay, gingivitis, thrush, and infections may occur. Dry mouth can also make it difficult for sufferers to talk or eat.
Medications
Hundreds of medications have been linked to dry mouth symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety drugs, blood pressure medications, prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxants, diuretics, acne drugs, epilepsy medications, and chemotherapy may all increase your risk of dry mouth, particularly if you take more than one medication.
Health Conditions
Disease, infection, and medical conditions like diabetes, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV or AIDS may all cause decreased saliva production and dry mouth. Treatments for health conditions including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may also cause chronic dry mouth.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking or chewing tobacco can decrease saliva production. Alcoholic or caffeinated beverages can cause dehydration, which may lead to dry mouth. Mouth breathing while awake or asleep can also dry out the mouth or worsen dry mouth condition.
If you suffer from dry mouth, our Westlake Village dentist can help you determine the cause of the condition and suggest the most appropriate treatment. The solution may be as simple as drinking more water or chewing sugar-free gum, as well as avoiding lifestyle habits that cause dry mouth. For more serious cases of dry mouth, our Westlake dentist may suggest an artificial saliva product, often available as a mouth rinse or spray.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
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Medications
Hundreds of medications have been linked to dry mouth symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety drugs, blood pressure medications, prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxants, diuretics, acne drugs, epilepsy medications, and chemotherapy may all increase your risk of dry mouth, particularly if you take more than one medication.
Health Conditions
Disease, infection, and medical conditions like diabetes, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV or AIDS may all cause decreased saliva production and dry mouth. Treatments for health conditions including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may also cause chronic dry mouth.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking or chewing tobacco can decrease saliva production. Alcoholic or caffeinated beverages can cause dehydration, which may lead to dry mouth. Mouth breathing while awake or asleep can also dry out the mouth or worsen dry mouth condition.
If you suffer from dry mouth, our Westlake Village dentist can help you determine the cause of the condition and suggest the most appropriate treatment. The solution may be as simple as drinking more water or chewing sugar-free gum, as well as avoiding lifestyle habits that cause dry mouth. For more serious cases of dry mouth, our Westlake dentist may suggest an artificial saliva product, often available as a mouth rinse or spray.
Source: Dr. Philip Shindler, Dentist Westlake Village
Back to Blog