Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is frequently a factor in cases we treat at Vista Dental. We depend on saliva for a number of functions, including breaking down food, washing away food residue and harmful bacteria, and maintaining our comfort. When our saliva runs out, we suffer from bad breath and are at increased risk of oral infections. People who wear dentures may have difficulty getting them to stay in place. The outside of the mouth can also dry out, leaving the lips sore and cracked.

Unfortunately, one of the most common reasons for dry mouth is that it is a side-effect of a large number of cancer and psychiatric medications. (Scientifically, dry mouth is known as xerostomia.) A less-common reason for dry mouth is Sjögren’s syndrome, which is a disease that also causes the eyes to dry out. Patients who cannot change their medications or take medications to stimulate saliva production they may need to buy mouth rinses and other artificial moisturizers. Chewing sugar-free gum is another way to stimulate additional saliva production.

Vista Dental is located at 7 Strachan Bay SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4Y2, Canada. To schedule an appointment, call 403-548-7077 or visit VistaDentalMH.Ca.