Saliva is an important aspect in maintaining a healthy mouth. It contains minerals such as calcium, which helps in maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Saliva also helps to protect against gum diseases and tooth decay. It also aids in digesting food.
Dry mouth happens when the salivary glands in the mouth cannot produce enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. We also refer to dry mouth as Xerostomia. It is not uncommon for a dry mouth to happen, especially when you are nervous. However, if you have a dry mouth throughout the day, then this may be a major problem.
Causes Of a Dry Mouth
There are many causes of a dry mouth. These include diseases such as diabetes and HIV. Certain diseases can cause the salivary glands not to produce saliva. Other times, a dry mouth can be because of a certain medication that you may be using. Medicine for high blood pressure, depression, or blood pressure can all cause a dry mouth.
Dental Complications from A Dry Mouth
Tooth Decays
Saliva protects the teeth from harmful bacteria because of its antibacterial properties. It helps to keep your teeth healthy and free from bacteria. When you have a dry mouth, bacteria have grounds to grow and multiply. Leading to tooth decay and gum diseases.
Bad Breath
Lack of saliva in the mouth will cause plaque and bacteria to build up at the base of the teeth. When bacteria build-up for a long time, it will become tartar and cause bad breath in the mouth.
Mouth Sores
A dry mouth will lead to the creation of sores in the mouth. It can also lead to a yeast infection in the mouth known as oral thrush.
Sensitivity
Lack of saliva in the mouth will also lead to the weakening of the enamel. The lack of saliva weakens the enamel and exposes the dentin, leading to tooth sensitivity.
Saliva is very important to the mouth. Thus, if your dry mouth is constant or temporary, it is best to take measures to treat it. To do this, make sure that you drink water throughout the day to hydrate. You can also chew on sugarless gum to help the glands produce saliva. However, should the symptoms persist, it is best to visit your dentist.
Dentist Tigard, OR | Dental Blog - Lincoln Center Smiles Dr. Saklofsky has created an educational blog as a resource for our patients. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please share it to social media, then call (971) 317-9499 to make an appointment. Lincoln Center Smiles, 10500 SW Greenburg Rd, Suite 3, Portland, OR 97223-1406, (503) 598-0898, sakdental.com, 12/6/2024, Tags: dentist Tigard OR,
Saliva is an important aspect in maintaining a healthy mouth. It contains minerals such as calcium, which helps in maintaining strong and healthy teeth. Saliva also helps to protect against gum diseases and tooth decay. It also aids in digesting food.