Dry mouth can become a very serious dental condition. People don’t realize how serious it is. A lot of times dry mouth is caused from some medications you’re taking. We need to find out exactly what’s causing that dry mouth so we can find a solution for it. The reason why it’s so important is because the saliva in your mouth buffers the acidity in the mouth, which causes cavities. So, if you have a dry mouth, you’re much more likely to have cavities in your mouth and even gum disease. So, it’s very important to get that treated and to find solutions for it so that you can maintain the health of your teeth.
Improve Your Comfort & Protect Your Oral Health
At North Oaks Dental, we address dry mouth by focusing on its underlying causes. Our team begins with a comprehensive exam and a careful review of your medical history to identify why your symptoms are happening. This step is essential, because without sufficient saliva, your mouth is more prone to cavities and gum disease. Saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles, so when production decreases, your oral health can quickly suffer.
Over 400 medications can cause dry mouth.
Source.
Many of our patients experience dry mouth due to:
- Tobacco Use – Smoking and other forms of tobacco can slow or reduce saliva flow.
- Medical Conditions – Diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and recovery from strokes are common contributors.
- Medications – More than 400 prescriptions list dry mouth as a side effect, including antidepressants, decongestants, muscle relaxants, and antihistamines.
- Cancer Treatment – Radiation therapy for oral cancers may damage salivary glands and reduce their ability to produce moisture.
Once we identify the cause, your dentist will design a personalized care plan. This usually begins with professional cleanings that go beyond routine maintenance. Our team will carefully remove harmful plaque and tartar and monitor your gums and teeth closely. We also provide preventive guidance so issues don’t escalate.
Call 734-593-1333 for help with dry mouth in Westland. You can also schedule online.
