Finding Relief from Dry Mouth
The mouth is meant to be a moist environment that aids in the breaking down of food, makes swallowing more comfortable, and rinses away food particles and bacteria. Unfortunately, many patients lack this crucial moisture and instead suffer from a condition known as dry mouth. Dry mouth can make the mouth and throat feel parched and cottony, and it inhibits many important oral functions. What’s more, the teeth and gums can be greatly affected by dry mouth, leaving many patients in need of restorative dentistry services to address oral health problems. To restore oral comfort and prevent dental complications, Dr. Lauren Shanard offers dry mouth treatment to her Williston patients.
RECOGNIZING DRY MOUTH
There are many factors that can cause patients to suffer from temporary cases of dry mouth. Dry, hot weather, a smoky environment, or dehydration can all result in the mouth feeling dry and sticky. When dry mouth is more superficial, or temporary, it can often easily be treated by drinking water and rehydrating the body. However, it is important for patients to recognize when dry mouth is a more persistent and serious condition, as these are the cases that need to be treated. Below are some of the possible side effects of dry mouth:
- Frequent thirst
- Dry, scratchy feeling in the throat
- A red, dry tongue
- Dry, cracked lips
- Difficulty chewing and swallowing
- Halitosis
If any of these problems are present, it is important to see Dr. Shanard so that she can determine if dry mouth treatment is necessary.
DRY MOUTH TREATMENT
The primary goal of dry mouth treatment is to restore moisture to the mouth. In some cases there may be an obvious factor that is preventing the mouth from getting its necessary saliva. Many medical conditions, lifestyle habits (such as smoking), and medications have been known to cause dry mouth. If this is the case and changes can be made to correct the problem, that is ideal. However, in most cases, patients require treatment to address this condition.
There are many products that are available to moisten the mouth and restore oral functions and comfort. Artificial saliva substitutes can be highly effective in lubricating the mouth and are available in a number of forms, including the following:
- Mouth rinse
- Oral gel
- Toothpaste
- Mouth spray
Dr. Shanard can help patients who suffer from dry mouth find a saliva replacement that works well for them.
ADDITIONAL TREATMENT
Dry mouth treatment products can restore moisture to the mouth and prevent oral health problems from developing, but many patients have already suffered from some degree of oral damage by the time dry mouth is diagnosed. Dr. Shanard offers a full range of restorative dentistry services to address problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss, all of which are possible complications of dry mouth.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
If you constantly find yourself with a sticky feeling in your mouth or a parched feeling in your throat, you may be suffering from dry mouth. If so, Dr. Lauren Shanard can help you explore dry mouth treatment options that will preserve your oral health and restore oral functions. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you!