Have you been noticing lately that your mouth is dry more often than not? It is a problem that may just be an annoyance, but it could also be a sign that something is wrong. Read on for a look at saliva, why it is so important (for your teeth and the rest of your body), and what it may mean if you have a dry mouth.
The importance of saliva
You probably don’t think too much about your saliva, but it serves some very important purposes. It helps to prevent tooth decay by washing bacteria, acid, and food particles off of teeth. It helps you to taste and makes it easier for you to chew and swallow your food. It even helps in the digestion of your food. You might notice a lack of saliva if your throat is constantly dry and sore, if your tongue is always dry, if you often have bad breath, and if you are having problems chewing and swallowing.
Dry mouth has many possible causes. It may be caused by certain medications or medical treatments, such as cancer therapies. It can be the result of using tobacco products or drinking alcohol. It can be caused by something as serious as nerve damage or may just be a part of aging. Having dry mouth for a long period of time can affect the health of your teeth, how much you enjoy food, and eventually it can affect your general health, if it keeps you from eating properly.
What can be done about dry mouth?
Your dentist will want to take special precautions to protect your teeth from decay if you suffer with dry mouth. He or she may recommend a special mouth rinse or fluoride trays. You may also be prescribed a special mouthwash that can help to provide moisture. You should also talk to your doctor about your dry mouth, if you think it may be caused by medication or a medical condition.
Living with dry mouth can be quite unpleasant. The staff at Dr. Samuel Jirik’s office in Cabot, Arkansas, can help. Call (501) 843-9561 today!
