Saliva plays an important role in the mouth. One of its important jobs is to wash away debris left after eating. Unfortunately, when xerostomia, or dry mouth, is present many patients don't have the saliva they need to keep their mouth moist. Dry mouth causes the gums, tongue, and other tissues in the mouth to become swollen and uncomfortable. Germs thrive in this type of setting. A germy, dry mouth leads to bad breath and most definitely increases your risk for all types of cavities!
The second most important role saliva plays is that it contains two major antibody classes which operate in saliva to fight bacteria in dental plaque and other possible mouth-borne diseases. When you have less saliva , you have less bacterial fighting antibody immunity!
If your mouth feels dry as a desert, here are a few tips to help wet your whistle:
• Drink plenty of water.
• Use sugar-free gum or sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva production.
• Use a room humidifier at night.
• Use a fluoride rinse and paste at bedtime.
• Use an over-the-counter saliva substitute. NOTE: Artificial saliva helps keep your mouth moist and comfortable. But it doesn't contain the proteins, minerals, and other substances found in real saliva that help with digestion.
Patients who suffer from dry mouth should avoid caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, mouth breathing, and foods that are high in sugar and acids. Additionally some of the following medications can dry your mouth out:
• Antihistamines and decongestants
• Anxiety medicines
• Appetite suppressants
• Certain types of blood pressure drugs
• Diuretics (water pills)
• Most antidepressants
• Certain pain medicines (analgesics)
