What Causes Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth raises your risk of oral health issues like mouth infections, gingivitis and tooth decay. Like headaches, dry mouth can be caused by a few different issues. If could be a side effect of a medication you’re taking. It could be due to an infection or disease, including Sjögren's syndrome (see below). Dehydration due to lifestyle could also be a factor or it could be a consequence of nerve damage.
What Stops Dry Mouth?
Drinking water, chewing sugar-free gum and using an artificial saliva substitute can all help improve the flow of saliva. However, that might not be enough to combat the problem. Coming to Dr. Grushka’s office in Toronto will allow you to be examined properly so we can determine how severe your issue really is. Our diagnostic procedures may include but are not limited to:
-
Oral examination
-
Laboratory testing (including cultures and blood tests)
-
Biopsy
-
Radiographic imaging
-
Salivary flow testing
-
Tissue staining and sampling
-
Taste and smell testing
From there, Dr. Grushka can prescribe a medication to help the problem if need be.
Sjögren's Syndrome
The disease Sjögren's Syndrome damages the tear and saliva-producing glands. This causes your mouth and eyes to not produce moisture. Damage to your nerves, kidneys and lungs can also happen and you might be experiencing tiredness and aches in your joints. Steroid prescriptions can be written for the muscle/joint pains, but artificial tears and saliva can also help with the moisture issues. The doctor can go over these and other home treatments with you during your appointment.
