If you’re like most people with a healthy mouth, you probably don’t think much about how it feels inside unless there’s a problem, such as an annoying and potentially harmful condition called dry mouth. While in most cases it can be easily eliminated by simply having a refreshing glass of water, if it’s persistent, it can eventually cause permanent damage to your smile. Here’s a closer look at some of the common reasons people develop dry mouth at any age, and what you can do if it happens to you!
What Causes Dry Mouth?
Saliva is an important fluid created by the salivary glands in your mouth. It is comprised of about 99 percent water, along with mucous, enzymes and electrolytes, all of which help keep your oral tissues and teeth hydrated, neutralize plaque acids, and rinse away bits of food and bacteria. Unfortunately, however, sometimes your mouth can experience a lack of this important fluid which is known as dry mouth and can cause bad breath, gum disease, and increase your risk of cavities, too!
Reasons for Dry Mouth at Every Age
While dry mouth is more common in older adults, it can affect your smile at any age. Here are a few reasons it can occur at each stage of life.
Children & Young Adults
Dry mouth in younger people is less common but can still be very harmful, and can be caused by:
- Dehydration due to heat or digestive issues such as diarrhea or stomach viruses.
- Mouth breathing from airway problems or sinus congestion.
- Certain medications including those which are prescribed for mood and behavioral disorders or certain cancers.
- Illnesses like diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome.
For children with persistent dry mouth, speak to their physician about switching their medication, or their dentist about adding a prescription mouthwash to help increase hydration and protect their teeth and gums.
Adults
Adults can develop dry mouth for some of the same reasons kids do, as well as:
- Using prescribed or over the counter allergy, flu, and high blood pressure medication.
- Medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
Due to an increased risk of periodontal disease in adults, it is important to treat dry mouth promptly with the help of your dentist to avoid permanent damage to the teeth and gums.
Seniors
Dry mouth is most common during the senior years, and it’s no coincidence that so are conditions like gum disease and permanent tooth loss, as they are more likely to be taking regular medications or suffering from medical conditions that are common with advanced age. However, just because your health status may change with time doesn’t mean your smile needs to suffer, so seniors experiencing chronic dry mouth should seek the advice of their physician or dentist to keep their grin looking and feeling great, even in their golden years.
Remember, dry mouth can cause more harm than just feeling uncomfortable – if left untreated, it could increase your risk of gum disease, cavities, and permanent tooth loss. So, drink plenty of water and reach out to your dentist or doctor to help stop arid conditions at the source for a healthier, happier, more hydrated smile!
About Dr. Bustillo-Gonzalez
Dr. Carla Bustillo-Gonzalez earned her dental degree at the Goldman School of Dental Medicine at Boston University. She is a proud Fellow with the American Dental Implant Association, as well as a Certified Invisalign Provider, and a proud active member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society. To schedule a checkup and cleaning at Shawsheen Family Dental, visit our website or call us today at 978-851-7112.