Xerostomia is the medical term for ‘Dry Mouth’. Dry mouth occurs when your salivary gland does not produce enough saliva, when this occurs, your mouth can get dry and uncomfortable. Our salivary gland is crucial to keep our soft tissues moisten and to clean our mouths and digest food. Saliva also prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth from spreading or growing. The effects of dry mouth can make you thirstier than usual, without your saliva, it can be difficult to taste and digest the food and drinks you consume.
What causes Dry Mouth?
The cause of dry mouth varies, as it can be a side effect of certain medication, certain diseases, medical treatments, nerve damage, dehydration, surgical removal of salivary glands or lifestyle. Having a dry mouth does not only lead to bad breath or dry sensation in your mouth but it can also be a risk of developing gingivitis (gum disease), tooth decays and mouth infections such as thrush or yeast infection.
Halitosis: How do I know if I have bad breath?
Halitosis is the medical term for ‘bad breath’. Having bad breath when you wake up from your 8 hours sleep is normal and common as saliva production decreases while you’re sleeping, this can cause bacteria to grow inside the mouth. While you are awake throughout the day, saliva usually flushes out the odor-causing bacteria, however, while you are sleeping, the bacteria buildup inside the mouth, making its presence known with its bad breath odor.
Furthermore, if bad breath continues throughout the day, it may be a sign that you may have dental or other health conditions. If bad breath continues, it is important to visit your dentist to check for common causes of Halitosis, as there may be an underlying issue such as gum infection or poor dental hygiene that is causing bad breath.
Halitosis can be treated depending on what is causing it. If bacteria in the mouth is the cause, our dentist will examine your mouth for pockets of trapped food or infections.
Take Control of Your Dry Mouth Today!
Struggling with dry mouth? Don’t let xerostomia affect your daily life and oral health. Schedule an appointment with our expert dental team today to explore personalized treatment options and find relief. At Lumino Smiles, our dental practitioners will also give advice about good oral hygiene which can help to prevent halitosis.