The Problem With a Lack of Saliva

When you don’t produce enough saliva in your mouth, you are more prone to have dry mouth. Most people have experienced dry mouth in their lifetime. Though, it is often temporary due to dehydration or breathing dry air. Nevertheless, some people have a chronic dry mouth, which means these people have a drier mouth on a more regular basis.

By salivating, your mouth helps you digest and taste whatever you consume. Food residues are removed from your mouth and acid is flushed away too. Having adequate saliva means you can prevent problems like tooth decay, halitosis or enamel erosion due to acidic mouth.

Dry mouth is also medically termed as Xerostomia. It means a decreased production of saliva. This condition can be temporary or chronic.

There are many causes of dry mouth. Not drinking enough water or having emotional or mental stress can cause reduced saliva in your mouth, which in turn leads to Xerostomia. Other causes include hormonal changes, certain medical conditions, drinking alcohol, aging, and medications.

Saliva is essential to maintain your oral health. Therefore, if you’re experiencing dry mouth, you have to follow these simple tips from us that can help you with your condition.

1. Breathe through your nose and not through your mouth.
2. Ask your dentist if you may benefit from high fluoride mouth rinse and fluoride toothpaste.
3. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
4. Avoid eating sweet food, drinking alcohol, soda, and caffeinated drinks.
5. Quit smoking.
6. Drink eight glasses of water daily.
7. Visit your dentist twice yearly.
8. Do proper oral hygiene routine.

If you need more information on decreased saliva and Xerostomia, contact our dental team in Alliston. Here at Dr. Parekh & Associates, we care about your oral health!

-Dr. Parekh & Associates Team