What causes dry mouth (Xerostomia)?
Dry mouth is caused by decrease in the amount of salvia in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent decay and other oral health prolems. Dry mouth may be a sign of a serious health condition or may occur when a person is upset or experiences stress. It also can be caused by aging, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, medications, or diseases such as AIDS, diabetes, or Sjogren’s Syndrome. Dry mouth can cause difficuly in tasting, chewing or swallowing. It also allows plaque to build up on your teeth faster, leading to a higher risk of cavities. Your dentist will want to know if you have difficulty swallowing, difficulty with speech, oral sorness or a dry throat. Here are some recommendations to ease your discomfort: Brush and floss twice a day, chew sugarless gum, avoid alcohol and caffeine, avoid smoking, avoid citrus juices, avoid dry foods and salty foods, drink plenty of water, use over-the-counter mo
