Suffering from Dry Mouth?

Many people suffer from dry mouth from time to time.

However, when the dry mouth feeling doesn't go away it may indicate you may have problems with producing saliva.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

  • A dry feeling in the mouth or throat
  • Issues with swallowing, tasting, chewing or speaking
  • A dry, tough tongue
  • Cracked lips
  • Gum irritation
  • More frequent tooth decay
  • Mouth sores
  • Bad breath
  • A burning feeling in the mouth.

If you have symptoms of a dry mouth most of the time it can be uncomfortable and may cause serious consequences for your oral health.

A dry mouth (also known by its medical term, xerostomia) is when you do not have enough saliva to keep your mouth wet and moisturised and able to supply Calcium and Phosphate to rejuvenate the teeth. Also, it can cause inflamed gums that are more susceptible to infection. Having a lack of saliva (which cleanses the palate) could lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues.

It is important that you take good care of your teeth and gums. Brush twice a day, with a Fluoride toothpaste such as BioMin® F toothpaste and either floss or use an interdental cleaner once a day to remove dental plaque and food debris from between the teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach.

BioMin® toothpastes incorporate specially formulated bioactive particles within the toothpaste structure. When faced with an acid challenge (through drinking and eating) the BioMin® (C or F) particles dissolve quickly raising the pH and releasing calcium phosphate and in the case of BioMin® F Fluoride ions to minimise the risk of acid wear of the enamel.

There are a number of other steps you can take to help minimise dry mouth;

  • Sip water or sugarless drinks throughout the day
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea and some fizzy drinks
  • Chew sugarless gum to stimulate salivary flow 
  • Avoid tobacco or alcohol
  • Minimise spicy or salty foods, as these may cause pain in a dry mouth
  • Avoid sugar and acidic foods
  • Using a humidifier at night
  • Seek advice from a dental professional regarding oral care products and actions that could help.