Dry mouth is a condition which occurs when the amount of saliva in your mouth is reduced. We all need saliva to moisten and clean our mouth as well as to digest our food. By the time you notice dry mouth research tells us over 50% of the saliva flow has already been lost.
Your saliva has proteins and enzymes in it which are essential for lubricating your mouth; it helps flush away bacteria, reduces bad breath, and prevents infections. When your mouth is not moist bacteria and food can stick to your teeth causing a buildup of plaque. This increases your decay rate, bad breath, gum disease, and other oral problems.
Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, diseases, infections, medical treatments, nerve damage, dehydration, and lifestyle.
Symptoms of dry mouth are a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth, frequent thirst, sores in the mouth, dry feeling in the throat, burning sensation in the mouth and bad breath.
If you believe you are experiencing dry mouth contact your dentist immediately; as there are several products available to help reduce the effects of dry mouth and help maintain a healthy oral environment.