What Causes Dry Mouth

Essentially, dry mouth stems from a prominent lack of saliva production. Saliva is important as it keeps both dental and periodontal surfaces moist enough, thereby neutralizing potential bacteria damage and creating a healthy oral environment.

While dry mouth isn’t ideal, everyone experiences episodes of dry mouth every now and then. It is in this case that dry mouth is pretty much normal. Persistent and recurring episodes of dry mouth, however, are another thing. Medically referred to xerostomia, frequent episodes of dry mouth maybe symptomatic of improperly working salivary glands.

• Xerostomia. or chronic dry mouth, can result from a number of possible causes. Among the most common of which include:

• Disease. There is a wide of range of unwanted medical anomalies that could easily ruin the salivary glands, and therefore cause dry mouth. These include diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and Sjogren’s., among many others.

• Medication. At present, 400 different types of medicine are documented to cause persistent dry mouth. Among the most common of which include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, diuretics, and anti-depression medication.

• Radiation therapy. The salivary glands are very vulnerable to radiation damage. This most frequently happens when both or either the head or neck are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment. Dry mouth due to radiation damage can either be momentary or permanent.

• Menopause. A dramatic change in hormone levels affects most of the human body — and salivary glands are no exception. Menopause typically leaves both menopausal and post-menopausal women with persistent dryness in their mouth.

• Smoking. The chemical heavy smoke that comes out of a lit cigarette is amongst one of the most common reasons of dry mouth.

Dentist In Brisbane

It is always a good idea to consult with your local dentist when experiencing prolonged or persistent episodes of dry mouth. Moreover, visiting your dentist regularly ensures that both your teeth and gums are free from any unwanted dental anomalies.

Malouf Dental houses a team of dental experts that provide the local Brisbane and its surrounding community with only the top quality dental solutions. Claim your FREE dental consultation by calling us at (07) 3390 6100. Or simply book an appointment online.