Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition in which the salivary gland in or mouth is unable to produce a sufficient amount of saliva. it affects about 10% of the population of the world. it is more relevant in more than in men. the risk of this condition increases with age.

 

How do you know whether you have a dry mouth?

 

Although the dry mouth is not a big threat on its own, it might lend to make serious oral complications. Therefore, the Best orthodontist in Kolkata has made a list of the symptoms of dry mouth. They are:

  • More frequent than normal thirst

  • Extreme dryness of the mouth and throat

  • Dry, raw and red tongue

  • Sores in the mouth

  • Split skin at the mouth corner accompanied by cracked lips.

  • The problem in chewing and swallowing food

  • Problem in speaking

  • Problem wearing dentures

 

What causes this condition?

 

Given below is a list of the main reason why this condition may occur.

  • Age is one of the common causes of dry mouth. As the body goes through the aging process, the ability to produce saliva reduces in the case of some people.

  • One of the side effects of most over-the-counter drugs is dry mouth. drugs used to treat depression, blood pressure, anxiety can lead to this medical condition. Some decongestants, muscle relaxants and pain medications also cause dry mouth.

  • Radiation treatment to the head tends to damage the salivary gland. Chemotherapy, therefore, takes a toll on the nature of saliva and the amount of it produced. In some cases, it is temporary while in other cases it is permanent. Go to the best dentist in Kolkata to take advice on how to treat it.

  • Smoking is one of the most common causes of dry mouth. Chewing tobacco and drinking alcohol also affects the amount of saliva produced inside the mouth. Other drugs such as Marijuana and Methamphetamine is also linked with it.

What threat does it pose?

 

Saliva is highly beneficial for various reasons. It helps to neutralize acids, bacteria and fungus which are formed inside our mouth and therefore, prevent mouth decay. It helps in the digestion of food and the remineralization of teeth. it also works as a lubricant in providing comfort against ulcers, sore, etc. Therefore, it leads to various complications as listed below:

  • Increase in plaque which will eventually lead to tooth decay.

  • Gum disease

  • Mouth sores which will grow worse with time

  • Yeast Infection in mouth, commonly known as ‘thrush’

  • Poor nutrition due to having problems chewing and swallowing food.

  • Sores in the corner of the mouth Cracked lips

 

In case you are suffering from the condition of dry mouth, visit the Best dental doctor in Kolkata and get it treated.