Got “Cotton Mouth”? Tell Your Dentist!

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition often perceived as a minor nuisance. In fact, many people refer to it as “cotton mouth,” or that lack of hydration you get in your mouth before making a speech or when you’re really stressed. However, chronic dry mouth can have a significant impact on dental health. At Roswell Complete Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of understanding and managing dry mouth, not only for comfort but also for maintaining optimal oral health.

The Dental Health Implications of Dry Mouth

Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health. It helps in neutralizing acids produced by bacteria, limits bacterial growth, and washes away food particles. Saliva also provides disease-fighting substances throughout your mouth to help prevent cavities and other oral infections. When saliva flow is reduced, the risk of dental health issues increases.

• Increased Risk of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Saliva helps in remineralizing teeth and protecting them against decay. A dry mouth lacks this protection, leading to an increased risk of cavities. Additionally, without the cleansing effects of saliva, bacteria can thrive, potentially leading to gum disease.
• Difficulty in Wearing Dentures: For those who wear dentures, a dry mouth can make it challenging. Lack of saliva can reduce denture adherence, cause soreness, and increase the risk of oral thrush.
• Bad Breath: Saliva helps in cleansing the mouth and reducing odor-causing bacteria. A dry mouth can lead to persistent bad breath, affecting social interactions and self-esteem.
• Difficulty in Speaking and Eating: Saliva facilitates speaking and eating. A lack of it can make these daily activities more challenging and less enjoyable.

Causes of Low Saliva Production

Several factors can contribute to dry mouth, including:

• Certain medications, such as those for depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, and colds.
• Aging, although dry mouth is not a normal part of aging, it’s a side effect of many medications older adults commonly take.
• Medical treatments that damage the salivary glands, like radiation to the head and neck.
• Diseases and infections that affect the salivary glands.

Treatment Options at Roswell Complete Dentistry

• Lifestyle and Home Remedies: Simple lifestyle changes can help, like sipping water regularly, avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine, and using a humidifier at night.
• Saliva Stimulants and Substitutes: We may recommend products to stimulate saliva production or saliva substitutes to help keep your mouth moist.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Routine dental visits are crucial for monitoring and managing the effects of dry mouth on dental health.
• Specific Dental Treatments: Depending on the severity, treatments like fluoride trays might be recommended to protect your teeth from decay.
• Medication Adjustments: If your dry mouth is caused by medication, we can work with your physician to adjust your medication or dosage.
• Oral Hygiene Education: We provide guidance on effective oral hygiene practices that are especially important for those with dry mouth.

At Roswell Complete Dentistry, we understand that dry mouth is more than just a discomfort; it’s a health concern that needs attention. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care to manage dry mouth effectively, ensuring your oral health remains optimal. Remember, addressing dry mouth is not just about comfort—it’s about maintaining a healthy, happy smile.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Roswell Complete Dentistry today. Your dental health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.