Dry Mouth Can Cause Big Dental Problems

If your mouth feels dry when you wake up in the morning, usually a glass of water and brushing your teeth will make it feel good again. However, many people have chronic dry mouth both throughout the day and night. The lack of lubrication can make eating and swallowing uncomfortable. More destructive plaque will form in dry mouths causing gum inflammation and a greater risk of tooth decay. Our mouths do get a bit drier as we get older but severe dry mouth can be caused by certain medical disorders or often are a result of side effects from medications such as anti-depressants, anti-histamines, decongestants, pain killers, and diuretics

Saliva is an important part of the immune system. It contains antibodies, enzymes, and minerals. Saliva works to eliminate oral bacteria, start the digestion of food, and helps you taste food. It protects the teeth from mouth acids by buffering the acids back to a neutral state. Another critical role is the minerals in your saliva help remineralize tooth structure attacked by acids.

If you suffer from dry mouth, there are helpful strategies to minimize damage. Get frequent dental checkups and fluoride treatments. Fluoride makes your teeth more acid resistant so you may want a prescription strength fluoride toothpaste and rinse Try chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production, and don't smoke or drink much alcohol. Both cause dry mouths. Use a humidifier at home, sip water frequently, and have a bottle of water by your bed. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and floss frequently.

If dry mouth is a problem for you, please call the NYC Smile Spa today at (212)838-2900 for a checkup and cleaning to discuss what should be done.

For more information, you can contact Dr. Michael Krochak at

drk@nycsmilespa.com

NYC Smile Spa

30 E. 60th St., Rm 1201

New York, NY 10022

(212) 838-2900

Relax and smile!