Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

Taking care of that Dry Mouth

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Many patients complain of dry mouth. This condition is also known as Xerostomia. Dry mouth usually occurs due to lack of saliva. Xerostomia can cause difficulty in eating as well as in speech. It also leads to halitosis and a rise in the number of cavities as well as many other annoying symptoms such as constant sore throat, hoarseness and dry nasal passages.

Xerostomia may be caused by an underlying disease, such as Sjogren’s syndrome or poorly controlled diabetes. However, there are also other causes for insufficient saliva. These include anxiety, antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, diuretics, alcoholic beverages, dehydration, radiation, and excessive breathing through the mouth.

In many cases it is not possible to correct Xerostomia itself, and treatment usually focuses on relieving the symptoms and preventing cavities. If you suffer from dry mouth, try sucking on sugar-free candy, use alcohol-free mouthwash or a saliva substitute product such as Biotine. Most importantly, pay special attention to your oral hygiene by flossing, brushing, and using prescription fluoride daily. Regular scheduled hygiene appointments are also very important to help control cavities.

If you have any questions about Xerostomia or would like to schedule a hygiene appointment, please call our office at (561) 394-9000 or visit our web site at www.drmogell.com.

Katherine Danias, R.D.H., BA,

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.