Dentist Boca Raton Dealing with Xerostomia

Treat Dry Mouth with Our Dentists in Boca Raton FL

Xerostomia is the professional term used to describe dry mouth. There are many reasons that someone could experience this condition. Here’s what you need to know.
 
Xerostomia
 
Some people develop xerostomia as a result of having chemotherapy or radiation, but there are other causes as well. Certain medications can lead to a dry mouth as well as many autoimmune disorders. On a more common level, you can expect dry mouth symptoms from hormonal changes, diabetes and infections as well.
 
This reduction in saliva flow can lead to several difficulties. Some of the most common include:
Trouble tasting
Inability to chew properly
Trouble swallowing
Impaired speech
Increase in dental decay, tooth sensitivity and oral infections
 
These symptoms can range from mild and barely noticeable to highly uncomfortable. Over time, it can lead to compromised health, quality of life and reduction in a healthy dietary intake. 
 
Treatment of Xerostomia
 
After an evaluation with your dentist's in Boca Raton, FL, there are possible treatments that might alleviate some of the discomforts of xerostomia. It is also important to prevent further complications such as cavities or infections. 
 
Saliva substitutes can be helpful in the battle against xerostomia. These can include lifestyle options such as chewing sugar-free gum on a regular basis. It is also important that you gently brush your teeth at least two times a day with fluoride toothpaste. This can help to reverse the effects of dry mouth plus prevent further concerns. 
 
Other treatment options can include:
Drinking more water
Sucking on sugar-free candy
Avoiding spicy foods
Abstaining from alcohol and tobacco products
 
There are other options that might also be available to you based on how severe your condition is. The first step to finding relief to your issues is to make an appointment with the dentist. That will enable your provider to find a cause behind your dry mouth symptoms. Then, they will be able to help you put together a comprehensive treatment plan to give you relief. If dry mouth is something you are presently living with, you don’t need to continue in discomfort.
 
Make an appointment for an evaluation with your dentists in Boca Raton, FL by calling (561) 391-0020 today.