How can Dry Mouth cause Dental Problems?

Louisville, KY

Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, is inconvenient and often uncomfortable, but it’s a condition that can also lead to serious oral health problems.

Saliva is fundamental in maintaining strong oral health. Let’s look today with our family dentist in Louisville at how dry mouth, caused by a lack of saliva, can cause serious dental problems.

How does saliva help protect oral health?

• Neutralizes acids — The mouth carries bacteria in it at all times. The bacteria feed on carbohydrates, particularly sugars, that are left on the teeth if someone isn’t properly brushing and flossing. The bacteria produce acids as a byproduct when metabolizing the sugars. These acids demineralize tooth enamel, creating weakened spots over time. These weak spots can easily turn into cavities in a short period without strong oral health practices. Saliva is on the front lines of decay prevention, neutralizing the harmful acids before they erode tooth enamel.
• Fights bacteria — Saliva contains enzymes and proteins that help combat the harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
• Washes away food debris — Saliva helps sweep food particles away and reduce plaque buildup on the surfaces of teeth.
• Strengthens enamel — Saliva contains calcium and phosphate that help remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel.
• Aids digestion — Saliva works hand-in-hand with the teeth to begin a person’s digestive process by breaking down food. Saliva, in particular, helps prevent harmful residue from lingering on the

What dental issues are caused by dry mouth?

• Tooth decay
  Since saliva washes away sugars and neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth, it stands to reason that without enough saliva, bacteria linger in the mouth, attacking enamel and making the teeth more susceptible to cavities.
• Gum disease
  A person’s gums need saliva to help keep them free of harmful bacteria. Dry mouth contributes to plaque buildup along the gumline, increasing the risk of gingivitis and, if left untreated, periodontitis.
• Bad breath
  Bacteria in the mouth release foul-smelling sulfur compounds when breaking down food particles that remain between the teeth after eating. Saliva removes the food particles and neutralizes the acid-producing bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

How can I manage dry mouth?

• Hydrate — Drink plenty of water every day.
• Chew gum — Chewing sugar-free gum, especially sweetened with xylitol, or using sugar-free lozenges can stimulate saliva production.
• Limit caffeine, alcohol and tobacco — These substances can worsen symptoms of dry mouth.
• Maintain good oral hygiene — Brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once daily and visit our Jeffersonville family dentist every six months for routine exams and professional cleanings.
• Talk with your doctor — If you are taking a prescription medication that is causing dry mouth, talk with your doctor about adjusting the dosage or recommending an alternative.

Dry mouth relief in Louisville and Jeffersonville, KY

If you’re suffering from dry mouth or any of its symptoms, be sure to contact us at Exceptional Dentistry. We can evaluate your oral health, identify any potential underlying causes and recommend treatments to protect your teeth and gums. Call our office at 888-918-3336, or reach out to us online today.