Dry Mouth

January 9, 2009

A lot of the kinds of meds we use can cause dry mouth, which can

cause severe tooth decay, as has been mentioned here recently.

However, we can be proactive about this side effect and help protect

our teeth. I talked to my dentist about it, and he had these

suggestions:

1. NEVER use a mouthwash with alcohol. It is extremely drying all

by itself. Instead choose one like the new Crest version that is

alcohol-free.

2. Even better, choose (and use regularly!) a mouthwash designed

specifically to help combat dry mouth. One of the best brands is

Biotene. They also make a toothpaste and other products to help with

dry mouth. They are easily available in almost any grocery store or

drug store. Often I see Walgreens putting them on sale, so keep your

eyes out for a deal.

3. Biotene also makes several different products for use at night

(that's when I get the worst of it, because my allergies mean I end

up breathing through my mouth in my sleep!) They have a gel you can

rub on your tongue and gums, a spray, and other preparations. Try

them to see what you like best. They do work!

4. Suck on hard, sugar-free candies. Especially sour ones, like

sugar-free lemon drops, to stimulate saliva.

5. Be really vigilant about brushing and especially flossing.

6. Your dentist can also sell you a prescription flouride rinse you

can use at home on a regular basis. Usually they only think about

that for kids or those with braces who have difficulty cleaning, but

if you tell them you're having this problem, you can use it too. It's

not expensive (I think my bottle, which lasted about 6 months, only

cost $12.)

7. Do whatever you have to to keep current with your cleanings and

check-ups. Even if you get some decay, you shouldn't have to lose a

tooth entirely if you're able to get to a dentist early enough to

have it discovered and treated before it damages things permanently.

If money is an issue, find a dental school in the area for cheap

exams and cleanings by students, or talk to dentists about reduced

rates based on need, or payment plans. It never hurts to ask, and

you might be surprised what they are willing to do for you.

Hope these suggestions help.

Cheryl in AZ

Moderator

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