5 Tips to Stop Chronic Dry Mouth

Have you ever had the uncomfortable feeling that your mouth is incredibly dry, almost like a desert? Dry mouth occurs when the salivary glands produce less saliva than normal. Dry mouth causes discomfort and can lead to oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated. Here are 5 tips for stopping chronic dry mouth!

Tips to Stop Dry Mouth

1. Drink Plenty of Water

This may seem like an obvious tip, but drinking water is maybe the best way to combat dry mouth. Dry mouth often happens due to dehydration, a problem you can easily solve by drinking more water. As an reminder to drink more water, keep a full glass of water next to you so can stay hydrated all day long. If dehydration isn’t the reason for your dry mouth issues, drinking water will still help by increasing the amount of saliva in your mouth and washing away any problematic bacteria from your mouth.

2. Chew Sugarless Gum

The simple act of chewing sugar-free gum is actually really great for your mouth because it increases the flow of saliva and eases your dry mouth symptoms. The common sugar replacement, xylitol, found in many sugar-free gums can also reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth that cause decay and bad breath. Sugarless mints and candies have a similar effect by stimulating salivary flow, as well.

3. Try Not to Breathe Through Your Mouth

Breathing through your mouth can dry out your mouth, so try to breathe through your nose when you’re resting. If you have difficulty breathing through your nose because of congestion or allergies, it may be a good idea to discuss those issues with your doctor and see if there may be a way to alleviate or combat your symptoms.

4. Avoid Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine has a drying effect in your mouth and can often worsen your dry mouth symptoms. If you really need your cup of coffee, be sure that you drink a glass of water too. However, if your dry mouth is really bad and you need to cut out caffeine completely but still need something to help you stay awake, try making yourself a bowl of oatmeal in the morning filled with energizing foods like almonds and blueberries.

5. Stop Smoking

   Smoking is very bad for your overall health AND your oral health. Cigarettes exacerbate dry mouth because smoking reduces your salivary flow. There are many resources that can help you stop smoking, including nicotine patches and gum, smoking cessation classes and support groups, herbal remedies, and even hypnosis.

Come Visit Us at Henson Family Dental

Another surefire way to combat dry mouth is by practicing good oral hygiene every day and coming in to see us for biannual cleanings and checkups. Call us today if you have any additional questions about dry mouth or to schedule your next dental appointment!