Why Is Dry Mouth Risky For Your Teeth?

In this blog post from Premier Dental Esthetics in Arcadia CA, we are going to talk about dry mouth, an unpleasant condition that can have a negative impact on your dental health.

Reduction of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common issue, especially among older adults. However, men and women of all ages experience the symptoms of dry mouth at one time or another. These include a dry, red tongue, difficulty swallowing, and persistent sore throat.

Sometimes dry mouth is caused by a disease or infection, but a more frequent cause of dry mouth is prescription medications. Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers are just some of the drugs that list ‘dry mouth’ as a common side effect.

It is common for allergy-prone people to complain of dry mouth when they start taking antihistamines during the hay fever season. Aside from being an uncomfortable nuisance, untreated dry mouth can cause tooth damage. Adequate saliva is required to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acidic environment caused by plaque. Extensive dental caries can ensue in the absence of saliva for dental patients with chronic dry mouth.

If you are unsure of the cause of your dry mouth, or if you are looking for dry mouth treatments, call Premier Dental Esthetics in Arcadia CA. Family dentistry, and maintaining dental health, are among our services.