Chronic Dry Mouth Can Be Caused by a New Medication

Saliva plays several critical roles in the health and function of your mouth. While you’re eating it helps to lubricate food for efficient chewing and swallowing. Afterward, saliva also helps to wash away stray food particles and plaque.

When saliva production is impeded the bacterial matter in your mouth can bloom. This could cause excess tartar to harden at the gumline as well as poor oral hygiene. In time, this can leave you more prone to problems with cavities and gum disease.

Chronic dry mouth can be caused by several different things. Frequent alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and chronic dehydration, can all be contributing factors. At the same time, a new medication could also cause dry mouth problems.

If you’ve recently started taking a new medication and you’ve also experienced dry mouth symptoms, you might want to talk to your physician. Sometimes they can provide you with an alternative prescription.

While you will certainly need to continue taking the medication, you might be able to keep your mouth hydrated by sipping on water throughout the day. Your physician might also be able to provide you with a prescription for an artificial saliva substitute.

If you live in the Cary, North Carolina, area and you need help identifying the source of your chronic dry mouth problem, you should call 919-380-9622 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stephen Coker at Parkway Dental.