Monday, October 24, 2011

Dental & Oral Health Tips: Handling Currently Experiencing Xerostomia

Dental & Oral Health Tips: Handling Currently Experiencing Xerostomia



Xerostomia or dry mouth is not a disease, but this condition is obviously very disturbing.
If experiencing xerostomia, there are several steps that can be done to handle it.
In general, the handling of xerostomia focuses on three areas, namely:
1. Relieve symptoms
2. Preventing tooth decay
3. Increased flow of saliva, if possible
Doctors will usually recommend patients do good dental care. This means patients have to brush your teeth and use dental floss correctly.
Patients also should visit the dentist regularly, at least 6 months. Your dentist also will regularly apply fluoride to teeth.
Patients may be given a prescription for fluoride rinse used in the home.
Treatment is based on the severity of the problem and what caused it.
Treatment with fluoride may be prescribed to help prevent cavities. Artificial saliva is also available in spray form, spray, or gel.
To relieve the symptoms of xerostomia, here are some things you can do:
1. Often drink to keep the mouth moist. Always carry water anywhere to go. Save water by the bed at night.
2. If you must chew gum, try a low sugar chewing gum.
3. Use a mouth moisturizer or saliva substitute.
4. Use a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol.
5. Avoid salty foods, dry foods such as biscuits, cakes, toast, and food and beverages with high sugar content.
6. Avoid drinks that can increase the frequency of urination, namely beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
7. Avoid smoking.
8. To reduce irritation, use a lip moisturizer and a toothbrush that has soft bristles to brush your teeth and gums.

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