Saliva is not one of those things that people really want to talk about. Be that as it may, it has a very important job to do. It helps break down your food so that your body can digest it. It also cleanses your mouth of food debris and fights bacteria; both which help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Stress can cause dry mouth in everyone from time to time, but if you have chronic dry mouth, you need to see your dentist. If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to infection and gum disease
Some indicators of dry mouth include a dry, sticky feeling in your mouth, a dry throat, cracked lips, and mouth sores. It can be caused by some medications, certain diseases and cancer treatments or even nerve damage. Tobacco, alcohol and caffeine use can lead to dry mouth.
To combat dry mouth, your dentist may prescribe a mouthwash or artificial saliva. Your dentist may want to confer with your physician about your medications, and other issues that contribute to the problem. It may be time to give up or limit coffee, tea, tobacco, or alcohol. You can also fight dry mouth by drinking more water, chewing sugarless gum or sucking on hard candies.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of dry mouth, don’t wait until an infection sets in. Contact Dr. Kimberly Fee for an examination and to discuss treatment options. If you live in the Prescott, Arizona, area, call 928-778-7410 to book an appointment at Kimberly W. Fee DMD.