Have you ever had the sensation when your mouth feels incredibly dry? Dry mouth happens when our salivary glands don’t produce as much saliva as the usually do. Dry mouth is uncomfortable, and if left untreated, can also lead to oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. Here are some ways you can fix dry mouth.
1. Drink Water
It may seem obvious, but drinking water is one of the best ways to combat dry mouth. Since dry mouth can happen as a result of dehydration, you can solve this problem by drinking more fluids. Keep a full glass of water next to you throughout the day to encourage you to keep drinking and stay hydrated. Even if hydration is not the reason for your dry mouth, drinking water helps to remove bacteria and stimulate your salivary flow.
2. Choose Sugarless Gum & Sugarless Candies
When we chew gum, the act of chewing itself stimulates your salivary flow, temporarily easing your dry mouth symptoms. Xylitol, a sugar replacement commonly found in sugar free gum, can also reduce the amount of decay- and bad breath-causing bacteria in your mouth. Sugarless candies and mints have a similar effect as sugarless gum in that they stimulate your salivation and temporarily relieve your dry mouth symptoms.
3. Avoid Caffeinated Beverages
Caffeine has a drying effect in your mouth so it often can make your dry mouth symptoms worse. You don’t have to cut out caffeine completely if you need a cup of coffee in the morning, but if you do, be sure to simultaneously drink a glass of water. There are other ways to make yourself stay awake if you feel you need to cut out caffeine including almonds, blueberries, and oats. Make yourself a bowl of oatmeal in the morning to fight fatigue without caffeine.
4. Breathe Through Your Nose
When you breathe through your mouth, you can dry out your mouth. Try to breathe through your nose when you’re resting. If you have trouble breathing through your nose due to allergies or congestion, it might be a good idea to discuss these issues with your doctor.
5. Stop Smoking
You know that smoking is bad for your health, but you might not realize that it also exacerbates dry mouth because smoking cigarettes slows down your salivary flow. If you have dry mouth, that’s just another reason to quit smoking. There are many resources to help you kick the habit including smoking cessation classes and support groups, nicotine patches and gum, herbal remedies, and even hypnosis.
6. Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air and this moisture can help cut down your dry mouth symptoms while you sleep. Try using a humidifier in your bedroom or even in your work space.
7. Establish a Good Oral Care Routine
Another way to combat dry mouth is by practicing good oral hygiene every day and coming in for regular cleanings and checkups.
Contact us today if you have additional questions about dry mouth and want to make an appointment to see us!