May 30, 2018
Frequently Asked Dental Questions
By Carole Ferch, RDH
I-Smile Silver Coordinator
Scott County Health Department
WHY SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT DRY MOUTH?
- Saliva helps to prepare your food for digestion. If you do not have enough saliva, the digestive process is altered from the very beginning.
- A dry mouth makes it harder to swallow, taste and even speak properly.
- Saliva helps to “wash” away food and bacteria. When you do not have enough saliva, you are more likely to get tooth decay (cavities).
- Saliva has lots of minerals to help strengthen weak tooth enamel.
WHAT CAUSES DRY MOUTH?
Some of the common causes of dry mouth are:
- Medications
- Cancer Treatment
- Radiation Treatment
- Dehydration
- Alcohol Use
- Smoking
- Mouth Breathing
- Age
WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP WITH DRY MOUTH?
- Inform your dentist or physician
- Brush regularly
- Sip water throughout the day
- Use sugar-free or *Xylitol containing gum and mints
- Do NOT use cough drops or hard candy with sugar
(this will increase your risk for tooth decay)
Use special products made for treating dry mouth:
- Biotene, ACT, and Spry are a few common brands that help relieve dry mouth. These products come in several options including rinses, gels, toothpaste, sprays, mints, and gum.
- Avoid alcohol containing products as they can be harsh and even painful on dry tissues.
- *Xylitol is a natural sugar found in fibrous fruits and vegetables, hardwoods and corncobs.
Contact the I-Smile™ Silver Coordinator for dental referrals, resources or questions at 563-326-8618.
Filed Under: Health & Wellness
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