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Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a common problem that affects more and more people.This is a condition in which the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva, leading to a feeling of dry mouth.In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, effects, and methods of diagnosing and treating xerostomia.
Dry mouth – causes
There are many factors that can lead to xerostomia.One of the main causes is age – as the years go by, saliva production may decrease.Other factors include the use of certain medications, autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy to the head and neck, stress, smoking and drinking alcohol.Additionally, poor oral hygiene and insufficient water intake can contribute to dry mouth.
Symptoms and effects of xerostomia
Dry mouth can cause many unpleasant symptoms.People suffering from xerostomia may experience burning, itching, pain and scratching sensations in the mouth.They may also experience difficulty chewing, swallowing and speaking.In addition, dry mouth may lead to the development of caries, inflammation of the oral mucosa and increase the risk of infection.
Xerostomia diagnosis
The diagnosis of xerostomia involves assessing the symptoms and conducting a thorough medical interview.Often, a dentist or periodontal specialist may recommend laboratory tests to assess the quantity and quality of saliva secreted.This allows you to determine the cause of dry mouth and exclude other diseases.
How to treat dry mouth?treatment of xerostomia
Treatment for xerostomia depends on its cause.If your dry mouth is a result of taking medications, your doctor may consider changing your treatment to less irritating agents.In the case of autoimmune diseases, pharmacological treatment may be necessary.It is also worth taking care of proper oral hygiene, using special toothpastes and mouthwashes, and avoiding irritating factors such as cigarettes and alcohol.
Home remedies for dry mouth
People struggling with xerostomia can also use home remedies to relieve dry mouth.One of them is to drink more water to keep your body properly hydrated.It is also important to avoid drinks containing caffeine and alcohol, which may further worsen dryness.Additionally, using indoor humidifiers can help alleviate the symptoms of dryness.
Your suggestions
If you have suggestions for treating xerostomia or would like to share your experiences with dry mouth, please leave a comment below the article.Your knowledge can help other people deal with this problem.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about xerostomia and how to deal with it, we recommend reading the following articles:
- How to take care of oral hygiene with xerostomia?
- Effective methods of moisturizing the oral cavity
- Foods and drinks that help fight dry mouth
Xerostomia is a problem that can significantly affect the comfort of life and oral health.However, proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of people affected by this condition.