What to do about a dry mouth

What if my mouth always feels dry?

If your mouth feels constantly dry, you may have a condition medically known as xerostomia, which occurs when saliva glands aren’t functioning properly. Not only can this result in the drying of oral tissues and tongue, but it also causes chapped lips and even problems speaking.

Persistent dry mouth is detrimental to good oral health. The condition can cause an excess of bacteria-harbouring plaque that causes bad breath and tartar not to mention cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth can even make wearing dental appliances like dentures painful.

Finding out why your mouth is so dry is important. If a couple of glasses of water do not give relief remember that certain OTC and prescription medications like antihistamines and blood pressure drugs can cause dry mouth. Check what’s in your medicine cabinet to see if any daily medications are the culprit. Also, other health issues such as diabetes and stroke can result in a persistently dry mouth. Make sure to check with your doctor before eliminating any medications you are taking that may dry out your mouth.

Dentists vs dryness

If you feel like you’re holding the Sahara Desert in your mouth, make an appointment with your dentist for a comprehensive examination of your oral health to determine the cause. Let your dentist know what health conditions you have and take in a list of medications you’ve been taking. In the meantime, you can relieve the sticky feeling by:

• Drinking more water
• Limiting caffeine and cutting out tobacco consumption
• Avoiding excess sugar and sweets

Keeping a bag of ice chips handy can also help. So does having a piece of sugar-free candy or gum. Remember to double up on your daily oral health regime by rinsing, brushing and flossing more until you can get in to see your dentist.