• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Hygiene
• Dry Mouth Complications
• Dry Mouth Due to Cancer Treatment
• Dry Mouth Symptoms
• Dry Mouth Treatments
• Gum Disease
• Tooth Erosion From Acid
• Gum Disease Symptoms
• Gum Disease Treatment
• Gingivitis Treatment
• Receding Gum Line
• Receding Gum Line Treatment
• Flossing
• Gum Disease Cure
• Oral Hygiene
• Periodontal Disease
• Laser Periodontal Therapy
• Hygiene Supplies
• Tooth Brushing
• General Dentistry
• Implant Dentistry
• Sedation Dentistry
• Sleep Apnea
• Patient Education
• Glossary
• Links
• FAQs
• Financial Options
• Post Operative Instructions
• Dental Emergency Service
• Add a Link
• Resources
• Sitemap

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Complications

Dry mouth is a feeling of being parched in the mouth due to a decrease in the amount of saliva produced. The patient might also have a sore throat, dry tongue, difficulty in swallowing, or chapped lips. There are many causes of dry mouth, technically termed xerostomia, but regardless of the cause, common complications of dry mouth arise unless the proper treatment procedures are followed. In order to prevent dry mouth complications, the patient must discuss the condition with his dentist. This will help to preserve his oral heath.

The complications from dry mouth are a result of the many tasks of saliva  not being played due to its lack. One of the primary roles is to protect the teeth from acid erosion from food and drinks. Without enough saliva, acidic beverages or foods which are consumed are left to eat away at the tooth enamel. This couples with the complication of dry mouth which is an increase in oral infections and cavities. Since saliva helps to wash away bacteria as well as protect the teeth, a lack of saliva will lead to a higher number of bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria eat at the teeth and lead to cavities. This effect is heightened if the tooth enamel has already been weakened by acid erosion. Bacteria also causes oral infections, like thrush, and bad breath, called halitosis.

Other complications of dry mouth affect dental appliances. Since there is no longer the lubrication offered by saliva, the tissues of the mouth next to the dental apparatus might become red, sore and inflamed. This is often seen with denture patients. The dentist will check for a proper fit of the oral appliance, and then he might prescribe a lubricant, saliva substitute, or adhesives to keep the dentures in place while eating. After every meal, the patient will need to be sure to clean his dentures and the area around them to prevent bacterial growth.

In order to prevent these many dry mouth complications, a dentist will instruct the patient to be especially diligent about his oral health habits. This means that the patient should limit between meal snacks, avoid sugary, acidic drinks and foods. He needs to be very careful about brushing and flossing his teeth and follow a proper regime. The dentist might also prescribe a mouthwash or gel in order to protect the teeth or to act as a substitute for saliva. Like any prescription, these drugs should be used as instructed in order to gain the fullest benefit. Sips of water throughout the day can help to alleviate dry mouth symptoms. In the absence of being able to properly brush and floss after a meal, the patient should rinse the mouth out with water after eating.