DRY MOUTH or XEROSTOMIA

Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is not a fun condition.  It’s when the mouth is not producing an adequate amount of saliva to keep the oral cavity moistened. The tongue can be raw and red, and having a burning or tingling sensation. Dry mouth can increase tooth decay, gum disease, thrush and mouth infections. It can also make denture wearing very uncomfortable.

The Purpose of Saliva

Produced from the salivary glands saliva is 98% water, with the remaining 2 % including electrolytes, mucus, antibacterial compounds and various enzymes. Saliva is composed of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, phosphates, immunoglobulins, proteins, mucins, urea and ammonia. Helps prevent infection by controlling bacteria and fungi and removing harmful bacteria that can cause cavities and infections. Also, provides a physical barrier against local irritants and moistens, lubricates and cleans the mouth, tissue and tongue and creates smoother speech. Saliva protects the teeth to help lower the risk of cavities by preventing demineralization and promoting remineralization. It holds enzymes, minerals, and nutrients for mucosal repair and stabilizes a pH and electrolyte balance. Saliva is considered the first step of digestion in aiding in chewing, swallowing and digesting food. A healthy mouth produces .75-1.5 liters a day.

Gum. Stimulates the salivary glands.

Lozenges. Works by sucking on the lozenges to stimulate saliva and soothes, moistens and freshens the breath.

Mouth wash. Moistens and soothes oral tissue.

Spray. Use throughout the day as needed by spraying directly onto the tongue and then spreading it around the mouth.

Toothpaste. Contains fluoride to help lower the risk of cavities.

Dry mouth is like dry skin, any product  used is going to relieve the discomfort temporary. All these products are used for temporary relief, they are not a cure for dry mouth. Depending on the reason for dry mouth depends on how temporary this issue may be. For instance, if it’s from medications or a health condition, as long as the medication or condition is present, a dry mouth will continue. So “dealing” with a dry mouth becomes a way of life, there’s only relief not a cure, unless the medication is stopped, or the condition is improved.

Biotene. Rinse, toothpaste, spray, gel.

Act. Rinse, toothpaste, spray, lozenges, gum.

Colgate.  Rinse, toothpaste. 

Enamelon. Toothpaste — provides Ultramulsion, a patented saliva-soluble coating that moisturizes and soothes oral tissues. Contains Spilanthes — a natural herb which encourages and heightens flavor to increase salivary flow and maintain equilibrium. 

Prevident for Dry Mouth (by Colgate). A prescription toothpaste. Can be purchased in the dental office or depending on the office a written prescription will be done

XyliMelts.  The main ingredient is xylitol, which aids in reducing the risk of decay. XyliMelts work by slowly releasing effective concentrations of xylitol into the mouth by coating and lubricating the mouth through increasing saliva. This product can be used during the day or at night.   

Read the instructions, since applying the disc is specific. Placing one or two discs on the outside of an upper or lower molar with the white side of the disc touching the cheek and the tan side on the tooth. Use the tongue to push the disc to a comfortable spot and leave alone for 10 seconds, as movement will disrupt the adhesion.

There are NO animal products, dye, colorings, preservatives, artificial flavors, fermentable sugars, gluten, egg, nuts, milk, and shellfish.