Dry Mouth and Dental Damage

Oracoat, a trusted dry mouth brand by dental professionals recognizes Oral Health Month with a reminder about the correlation between this condition and dental health. People who suffer from decreased saliva production and dry mouth are encouraged to seek out advice from a medical or dental health professional. People who aren’t sure if they have dry mouth can take Oracoat’s online self-evaluation quiz. The ramifications of ignoring symptoms could result in poor dental health.

“Dry mouth is more than just a nuisance. Gone untreated, it can impact the health of teeth and gums,” said dental hygienist, Julianne Souza. “Saliva production is really important because it neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, which in turn helps prevent tooth decay and its enzymes also aid in the digestion of food. Dry mouth shouldn’t be ignored.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, aging issues, certain prescription medications, and radiation therapy for cancer might cause dry mouth. Some signs that saliva production is suffering include bad breath; difficulty chewing, speaking, and swallowing; hoarseness; and an altered sense of taste.

The Mayo Clinic also cautions these potential complications from dry mouth:

• Increased plaque, tooth decay, and gum disease
• Mouth sores
• Yeast infection in the mouth (thrush)
• Sores or split skin at the corners of the mouth, or cracked lips
• Poor nutrition from having problems with chewing and swallowing

Edited by Maryssa Gordon, Senior Editor, Price of Business Digital Network