Alleviating dry mouth

Dry mouth is a feeling of having a dry mouth or a feeling of producing too little saliva. Many people experience dry mouth as a daily problem, and unfortunately, you may find that your pre-existing dry mouth condition may worsen in connection with serious illness or you may start having dry mouth.

There are various causes of dry mouth, and it may be due to the illness itself. It can also be a side effect of the various medications you're getting.

If you have had radiation therapy around the face or neck, it is not uncommon to have dry mouth. Chemotherapy may also cause dry mouth. If you are severely dehydrated, you may also experience having a dry mouth.

If you do not maintain proper oral hygiene, you may also get the feeling of having dry mouth. Having dry mouth brings with it a greater risk of tooth decay. Dry mouth can sometimes also cause nausea.

However, there are some things you can do to prevent or alleviate dry mouth. Ensure you get plenty of fluids, and ensure good daily oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene means that you brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush several times per day, rinse your mouth after meals, and if you have prosthesis, it is important that you take the prosthesis out and clean it.

Use your jaw and chewing muscles by chewing on something because it stimulates the production of saliva. You can use mouth swabs or use a mouth spray in your mouth, which are both products available at the pharmacy. Speak to the pharmacist about what will be best for you to use.

Chewing gum provokes the production of your own saliva, and this will also happen if you eat sour hard candies or sweets. It is important that you ensure that it is sugar free, so you don't get cavities. You can also suck on fresh pineapple - it will also stimulate the production of your own saliva. If you have difficulty eating acidic products, you can also get relief by sucking on some ice cubes.

If you find this advice isn't enough to eliminate your dry mouth sufficiently, please contact your dentist, who can advise you on the best treatment for dry mouth.