8 Tips For Treating Dry Mouth
The treatment for dry mouth highly depends on what’s causing it in the first place. People who suffer from this condition have a reduced salivary flow in their mouth that causes dryness, difficulty swallowing and speaking, as well as aversion to eating certain foods such as acidic, crunchy or spicy foods.
The reasons for suffering from this condition can be associated with certain medications or health conditions. Blood pressure medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can have something to do with it as well as conditions such as high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes or thyroid disease. If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry mouth it’s important to talk to your doctor in order to identify what’s causing it and get on your way to solving the problem.
In the meantime, however, there are certain tips for treating dry mouth that anyone can easily follow as a way to placate the symptoms and lower overall discomfort.
8 Tips For Treating Dry Mouth You Can Start Trying
#1. Drink lots of water:
Water is necessary to keep your mouth moist and loosen mucus. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times and keep it by your bed at night so that you can stay hydrated.
#2. Suck and chew:
Sucking on sugar-free candies, chewing sugar-free xylitol containing gum, ice chips or sugar-free popsicles can help increase the levels of saliva flowing through your mouth. However, although they don’t contain sugar these types of treats can still soften your teeth’s enamel so keep their ingestion moderated.
#3. Moisten your food:
Avoid foods that are too dry and eat broths, sauces, soups, creams or gravies as dressings. Eating soft, moist foods that are cool or at room temperature will help treating dry mouth. Also, avoid foods that are too salty or dry as well as food and beverages that are high in sugar.
#4. Avoid alcohol or peroxide in your mouthwash
One essential tip for treating dry mouth is to avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol or peroxide, since these types of ingredients will only make your symptoms worse.
#5. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
Both alcohol and caffeine are detrimental for your oral health but especially if you’re suffering from dry mouth. They not only dry out your mouth but alcohol increases dehydration by triggering frequent urination. While you’re at it, keep acidic beverages such as juices containing orange, apple, grape or tomato out of your reach.
#6. Quit smoking
If you’re a smoker you should know by now that smoking is one of the worst things for your oral health. Make an effort to quit this habit and you’ll surely be experiencing much less discomfort.
#7. Use a soft bristled toothbrush
Toothbrushes that are too hard can damage your teeth and gums. When treating dry mouth, it’s even more important to protect your oral health using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
#8. Keep your oral health in check
If you have a dry mouth then you are more vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease, since saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth clean. In order to avoid complications, you must pay special attention to your oral health routine, brushing after every meal, flossing every day and visiting your dentist often.
When suffering from this condition, it’s important that you visit your dentist soon in order to figure out the underlying cause and address it properly. However, these tips for treating dry mouth will surely help you alleviate the symptoms and go back to your normal life soon.
