Dentist Pasadena Texas:
Have you ever considered that one day you might have dry mouth? Many Americans suffer with dry mouth. One in Ten Americans take at least three prescription drugs per day. Dry mouth is among the most common side effects of medication. As a result, close to 50% of Americans aged Sixty-five or older suffer from dry mouth.
Dry Mouth: the Facts
Saliva (spit) is produced by several glands located beneath the mouth and within the jaw. Salivary glands are responsible for an amazing 48 ounces of saliva per day. When your mouth waters right before that first bite of a great cheese enchilada it’s because your saliva glands are working together in perfect harmony to aid in the first step of the digestion process. When these glands malfunction you may find yourself with an irritating case of dry mouth xerostomia (dry mouth).
Why does dry mouth happen? The most common culprit is prescription medication. Several hundred medications are capable of causing xerostomia. These medications range from sleeping aids, to blood pressure, cholesterol, antidepressants and more. Furthermore, as on ages the saliva changes consistency. Saliva will decrease from watery to more mucus like.
Why does Dry Mouth Matter?
Saliva is your ally. Its lubricates your mouth and helps to start the digestive processes. Dr. Nugent reminds you that dry mouth puts you in great danger of tooth decay, gum disease, cavities, tooth loss, and bad breath. If that’s not enough, those problems can result in costly and painful dental situations down the road.
What to Do if You Have Dry Mouth
- Talk to your medical doctor! It is most likely a medication issue and a simple switch could clear the problem right up.
- Take frequent sips of water or sugar-free beverages during the day.
- Eat very chewy sugar free foods.
- Chew sugarless gum with you and pop in a piece whenever your mouth gets dry.
- Most importantly, listen to Dr. Nugent and floss and brush three time a day using Prevident 5000 toothpaste.
- Rinse out your mouth right after eating high-sugar snacks and use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
Visit out practice at 3421 Burke Rd, Ste A, Pasadena Texas 77504.