Dry mouth is or has been a concern for most people at some point in their life. This condition can occur due to several different factors, especially taking medication. There are over 500 medications that can cause dry mouth, also referred to as xerostomia. Both prescription and over-the-counter medications can cause dryness of the mouth, including pain killers, antihistamines, and antidepressants.

Not only is dry mouth irritating, it can actually cause some real oral health problems. When the mouth is producing adequate amounts of saliva, the teeth are constantly being surrounded by minerals that keep the teeth strong and protected from decay. When saliva production slows down, the teeth may be more prone to caries. Xerostomia may also cause bad breath and other oral impairments. When this condition persists over time, it may actually irritate the mouth’s soft tissue, which makes it more susceptible to infection. This makes tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease more common.

If dry mouth is a problem for you, you may want to speak with your doctor about this condition and the medications you are taking. You should also have regular dental checkups and inform your dentist of your health and medical history. It may also be beneficial to increase your fluid intake, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol.

Because the health of your gums may also be affected by this condition, you may want to consider contacting the periodontal experts at Joseph R. Nemeth DDS & Associates for an examination. Good oral health is necessary for health of the entire body, so don’t exclude your mouth!