A dry mouth is more than just feeling a little thirsty.
If your mouth feels dry for a long time, it can be very uncomfortable. Talking, swallowing and eating may become harder. The risk of bad breath, tooth decay and irritated oral tissue also increases.
And no… you do not need to gulp down litres of water. The cause is not always too little to drink.
What causes a dry mouth?
Saliva is your mouth's natural protector.
It keeps your mouth moist, helps with chewing and swallowing, protects your teeth and supports a healthy mouth.
A dry mouth can have several causes.
💊 Medication
Many medicines can cause a dry mouth.
Examples include medicines for:
If you take several medicines, the effect may be stronger.
- high blood pressure;
- allergies;
- depression;
- pain.
💧 Not drinking enough
When you drink too little, your body produces less saliva.
Large amounts of coffee and alcohol can also contribute to a dry mouth.
😮💨 Mouth breathing
Do you often breathe through your mouth, perhaps because your nose is blocked?
Moisture in your mouth will then evaporate more quickly.
😴 Sleeping with your mouth open
Do you wake up with a mouth that feels like a desert?
You may be breathing through your mouth or snoring at night.
Your salivary glands also naturally produce less saliva while you sleep.
🦠 Conditions or treatments
Some conditions and medical treatments affect saliva production.
If your symptoms persist, have the cause investigated.
😰 Stress
Stress and tension can also cause a dry mouth.
Dry mouth and nerves occur together surprisingly often.
What can you do yourself?
Fortunately, simple steps can often help your mouth.
- 💧 Drink water regularly.
- 🍬 Chew sugar-free gum or use a sugar-free lozenge.
- 🚭 Limit alcohol and tobacco.
- ☕ Watch your caffeine intake.
- 🦷 Brush carefully with fluoride toothpaste.
- 💙 Consider an oral gel or saliva spray in consultation with your dental hygienist or dentist.
When should you seek help?
Does your mouth often feel dry, or does it stay dry for a long time? Do not wait.
A dry mouth increases the risk of:
- tooth decay;
- gum problems;
- problems with the oral tissue;
- bad breath.
In short
A healthy mouth begins with enough saliva.
Still struggling with a dry mouth? Make an appointment.
Together we will help your mouth feel comfortable again. 💙 Because a healthy mouth should not feel dry.
Want to talk it through?
I am here to help.
Not sure what suits your mouth best? Ask Mariska AI first or leave a message for Claudia.