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Dry Mouth: Causes, Symptoms and Solutions

Dry mouth is not only unpleasant, but can also have a serious impact on your oral health. Saliva plays an important role in the mouth: It breaks down food, cleans bacteria, protects your teeth and helps digestion.

However, reduced saliva production can cause dry mouth and this can lead to many health problems. So, what are the causes of dry mouth and how can solutions be applied? Here is what you need to know:

Causes of Dry Mouth

  1. Medication
    Many medications, especially antihistamines, depression medications, painkillers and blood pressure medications, can inhibit the functioning of the salivary glands. This can lead to dry mouth. If you take regular medication, it may be helpful to tell your doctor about dry mouth.

  2. Ageing
    Saliva production may decrease as we age. This is generally more common in the elderly and can cause dry mouth.

  3. Dehydration
    Not drinking enough water is one of the simplest but effective causes of dry mouth. Dehydration of the body can adversely affect saliva production.

  4. Mouth breathing
    Mouth breathing due to nasal congestion or allergies can lead to dry mouth. Mouth breathing, especially during sleep, can reduce saliva production.

  5. Cancer Treatment (Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy)
    Drugs and radiation used during cancer treatments can affect the salivary glands, which can cause dry mouth.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

  • Sensation of Dryness in the Mouth: The most common symptom is a constant feeling of dryness in the mouth.
  • Difficulty speaking and swallowing: Without enough saliva, you may have difficulty speaking or eating.
  • A Sticky Mouth Feeling: A sticky feeling may occur when chewing food or moving your mouth.
  • Bad Mouth Odour: Saliva cleans the bacteria in the mouth. As saliva production decreases, bad odour may occur in the mouth.
  • Bleeding gums and tooth decay: Insufficient saliva can lead to plaque accumulation on the teeth, which can lead to gum disease and cavities.

Solution Suggestions for Dry Mouth

  1. Drink plenty of water
    The simplest solution is to drink enough water. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day can increase saliva production.

  2. Chewing Sugar-Free Gum
    Sugar-free chewing gums can stimulate saliva production. Also, chewing gum keeps the mouth moist and can relieve dryness.

  3. Gargling with Salt Water
    Salt water helps to clean bacteria in the mouth and can relieve dryness. You can try gargling several times a day.

  4. Applying Steam
    Increasing the humidity of the environment by using humidifiers can support saliva production, especially in dry weather. In addition, taking a hot shower can also help steam to relieve dry mouth.

  5. Special Products for Dry Mouth
    Sprays, mouthwashes and gel products specially formulated for dry mouth are available on the market. These products can maintain the moisture balance in the mouth.

  6. Dentist and Doctor Check-ups
    If dry mouth persists, it is helpful to see a dentist or doctor. Your dentist can detect secondary problems such as gum disease due to dryness and offer treatment recommendations.

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