It’s common to experience dry mouth occasionally, but for some people, it is a chronic, annoying problem. And unfortunately, dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also increase your risk for developing cavities and gum disease.
The goal of preventative dentistry in Bangor, ME is to help our patients stay a step ahead of problems and combat issues like dry mouth before they compromise your oral health.
How Dry Mouth Affects Your Oral Health
When your mouth is well-hydrated, there’s a consistent flow of saliva to carry away the acid that is produced by bacteria after you eat or drink. The acid attacks your teeth and dissolves essential surface minerals, which lead to decay. Saliva is beneficial because it contains elements that neutralize and help flush the acid out of your mouth.
You may experience dry mouth as a result of dehydration from exercise or being in a dry climate. But many people today also take medications like antidepressants that are notorious for causing dry mouth.
Tips for Getting Rid of Dry Mouth
If you deal with the nuisance of chronic dry mouth, here are a few tips to help our Bangor, ME patients keep their mouths hydrated and healthy:
- Stay hydrated – One of the best ways to fight chronic dry mouth is to keep a bottle of water with you and sip it throughout your day.
- Chew sugarless gum – Contrary to what you might think, there’s a lot of evidence to suggest that chewing sugarless gum is good for your teeth because it stimulates the flow of saliva and also carries off food particles that lead to decay.
- Increase humidity - Dry air in your home can be a problem, especially during winter months, because it shrinks mucous membranes, leaving your mouth feeling parched. Using a humidifier will help keep your mouth and nose moist.
Talk to Your Bangor, ME Dentist about Dry Mouth
When we talk about preventative dentistry, we’re talking about dental exams and teeth cleanings that allow Dr. Buxton to identify and treat problems like dry mouth promptly at our Bangor, ME dental office.
If you are dealing with dry mouth, please call Maine Family Dental to schedule an appointment.
