ARTIFICIAL SALIVA PRODUCTS THAT RELIEVE XEROSTOMIA
1). Oasis, a spray that contains glycerin and fluoride to moisturize and protect the mouth.
2). Aquoral, a spray that contains xylitol and lipids to lubricate and coat the mouth.
3). SalivaSure, a lozenge that contains xylitol and calcium to stimulate saliva flow and prevent tooth decay.
4). Caphosol, a solution that contains phosphate and calcium to moisten and remineralize the mouth.
5). XyliMelts, a tablet that contains xylitol and cellulose gum to adhere to the gums and release moisture throughout the night.
6). Numoisyn, a gel or a lozenge that contains hyaluronic acid and citric acid to hydrate and soothe the mouth.
– Stress can also cause dry mouth, as it can affect the body in various ways, such as:
• Increasing cortisol, the stress hormone, which can change the composition of saliva and reduce its flow.
• Reducing fluid intake, which can lead to dehydration and dry mouth.
• Causing mouth breathing, which can dry out the oral tissues.
• Triggering acid reflux, which can irritate the mouth and affect the salivary glands.
– Some of the health conditions that can cause dry mouth include:
• Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disease that attacks the salivary glands and other parts of the body.
• Diabetes, which can lead to diminished saliva production when blood sugar levels are too high.
• HIV/AIDS, which can impair the immune system and affect the salivary glands.
• Alzheimer's disease, which can cause cognitive decline and affect the nerves that control salivation.
• Parkinson's disease, a nervous system disorder that can impact the salivary glands and cause difficulty swallowing.
• Stroke, which can damage the brain and affect the nerves that control salivation.
• Mumps, a viral infection that can cause inflammation and swelling of the salivary glands.
Can drinking more water help with dry mouth?
– Drinking more water can help with dry mouth, as it can:
• Keep your mouth moist and prevent it from feeling dry, sticky, or burning.
• Wash away food particles and bacteria that can cause tooth decay, gum disease, or bad breath.
• Aid in chewing, swallowing, and tasting food.
• Prevent dehydration, which can worsen dry mouth and affect your overall health.
– The recommended amount of water intake for adults is about eight to 12 glasses of water per day, unless your doctor advises otherwise. You should sip water throughout the day, especially with meals, and keep some water by your bed at night. You should also avoid drinks that can dehydrate you or irritate your mouth, such as caffeine, alcohol, or acidic juice. Drinking more water is one of the natural ways to relieve dry mouth, but it may not be enough to treat the underlying cause or prevent complications.
Can dry mouth cause bad breath?
– Yes dry mouth can cause bad breath, or halitosis, because saliva helps to cleanse and wash away dead cells and food particles that can decompose and produce foul odors.
– Saliva also helps to neutralize acids and prevent bacterial growth that can damage the teeth and gums and cause bad breath. When there is not enough saliva in the mouth, these functions are impaired and bad breath may result.
To prevent and treat dry mouth and bad breath you can try some tips, such as:
• Drink plenty of water or sugar-free drinks throughout the day and keep some water by your bed at night.
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies or ice chips to stimulate saliva flow.
• Use artificial saliva products, such as sprays, gels, or rinses, that contain xylitol, carboxymethylcellulose, or hydroxyethyl cellulose to lubricate and moisturize your mouth.
• Use fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, gel, or trays to protect your teeth from decay and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritation.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning and inform them of your dry mouth condition.
• Ask your doctor if you can take medications that stimulate saliva production, such as pilocarpine or cevimeline, if your dry mouth is severe and persistent.
• Ask your doctor if you can take medications that stimulate saliva production, such as pilocarpine or cevimeline, if your dry mouth is severe and persistent.
PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY WITH DRY MOUTH
– Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition where the mouth does not produce enough saliva, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of dental problems. Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria that can cause tooth decay, neutralize acids that can damage the enamel, and re-mineralize the teeth with minerals such as calcium and phosphate.
– To prevent tooth decay with dry mouth, you can try some tips, such as:
• Drink plenty of water or sugar-free drinks throughout the day and keep some water by your bed at night. This can help moisten your mouth and wash away food debris and plaque.
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies or ice chips to stimulate saliva flow. Products that contain xylitol may also help prevent cavities by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
• Use fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, gel, or trays to protect your teeth from decay. Fluoride can strengthen the enamel and prevent demineralization. You can also ask your dentist for a prescription fluoride toothpaste or gel, or a custom-fit fluoride applicator, if you have a high risk of tooth decay.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes to avoid irritating your gums and oral tissues. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, after every meal and before bedtime, and floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning and inform them of your dry mouth condition. Your dentist can examine your mouth and teeth for signs of decay or infection, and recommend treatments or preventive measures, such as sealants, fillings, or crowns.
• Avoid foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acid, such as candies, sodas, juices, and citrus fruits, as they can damage your teeth and irritate your mouth. Choose foods and drinks that are low in sugar and acid, such as water, milk, cheese, yogurt, and vegetables.
– These are some of the ways to prevent tooth decay with dry mouth. However, if you have any symptoms or signs of tooth decay, such as toothache, sensitivity, discoloration, or holes in your teeth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.
