Acupuncture Provides Relief For Sufferers Of Dry Mouth

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Source: Academy of General Dentistry Date: 2005-06-17

URL: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/06/050616060359.htm

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New Report Indicates Acupuncture Provides Relief For Sufferers Of Dry

Mouth

The emergence of acupuncture is allowing some patients to relieve or

significantly reduce dry mouth's debilitating effects, according to a report in

the May/June 2005 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General

Dentistry's (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal.

Dry mouth (also known as xerostomia) is a painful condition caused by a

decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when salivary glands do not

work properly. Saliva is a natural defense for teeth and plays a major role in

preventing tooth decay by rinsing away food particles and neutralizing

harmful acids.

A decrease in saliva puts patients at risk for cavities, gum disease and

discomfort since foods that are consumed adhere to the teeth longer. Dry

mouth can be caused by medications like antihistamines, decongestants,

antidepressants and diuretics and can often be treated by the dentist.

The quality of life of patients suffering from dry mouth is often profoundly

impaired. Symptoms include extensive dental decay, infections of the tissues

of the mouth, difficulty in speaking, eating and swallowing, ulceration or

soreness of the mouth, an altered sense of taste and difficulty in wearing

dentures.

However, " typical treatment options for dry mouth have been short-term at

best, " according to Warren M. stein, DDS, MPH, and associate dean at

the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, University of land Dental

School. " Studies have found that acupuncture was a viable option to

successfully treat dry mouth pain in patients and provide long-term relief. "

After undergoing head and neck radiation therapy, seven patients with dry

mouth were treated using acupuncture. Patients were seen once a week for

four to five weeks, followed by two or three biweekly sessions. Dr.

stein found that eight months after treatment, all patients reported a

reduction in dry mouth symptoms, as well as an increase in saliva flow and

the ability to eat and speak, and improved sleep.

In the United States, acupuncture is performed primarily by licensed, non-

physician acupuncturists. Additionally, physicians and a small number of

dentists have been trained in medical acupuncture.

Acupuncture is effective in increasing the amount of saliva and, by doing so,

alleviating or decreasing the symptoms of dry mouth.

To Ease Dry Mouth Pain:

* Brush and floss twice a day

* Chew sugarless gum

* Avoid alcohol and caffeine

* Avoid smoking

* Avoid overly salty foods

* Drink plenty of water

* Avoid citrus juices (tomato, orange, grapefruit)

* Avoid dry foods, such as toast or crackers

* Use over-the-counter moisture replacement therapies

* Visit the dentist regularly