Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Dry Mouth: The Dental Connection!

Medications often have frustrating side effects such as nausea or headaches.  But did you know that dry mouth is also a common side effect of prescription drugs? There are over 400 medications that can affect your salivary glands.  These medications include those used to treat depression, anxiety, pain, allergies, diarrhea, urinary incontinence, Parkinson's disease, and many other conditions.

Our salivary glands are extremely important because they produce saliva. Saliva keeps our mouths moist and breaks down the foods that we eat.  It also helps keep the bacteria in our mouths under control.

Dry Mouth Implications

  • A higher risk of gum disease
  • An increase in cavities
  • Discomfort and difficulty eating, swallowing and talking

7 Simple Solutions To Help Fight Dry Mouth
  • Drink more water
  • Chew sugar-free gum
  • Eat frozen fruit
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
  • Use a humidifier while sleeping
  • Maintain regular oral care habits
  • Maintain regular dental cleanings
  • Use saliva replacement products

If you are having a lot of trouble with dry mouth or are in need of an appointment, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,


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