Dry Mouth

Raise your hand if you agree that it’s hot outside! Don’t worry if your raised hand reveals a great deal of sweat, we all have it and can’t avoid it in the hot July summer in Georgia! Have you been experiencing something called “dry mouth” as you are trying to balance the amount of fluids you’re losing with the amount of fluids you’re consuming?

Dry mouth is not simply being temporarily thirsty. Dry mouth occurs when you have a temporary decrease in the amount of saliva your body produces. If you suffer from perpetual dry mouth symptoms it could lead to other serious oral health risks.

When you have dry mouth you have insufficient saliva to commence the proper process of digestion. You also lack the fluids that are helpful in washing away bacteria and food particles off your teeth and neutralize your harmful acids. This can result in the build up of plaque and bacteria, which can lead to bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay.

During these hot summer months, it’s important to keep your mouth wet and hydrated. There are many ways you can do this to prevent dry mouth.

• Carry a water bottle with you and take sips on water all throughout the day.
• Chew on sugarless gum to aid in providing moisture in your mouth and to stimulate your saliva glands.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks.
• Avoid dry and salty foods.
• Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.

Be sure to book your regular checkup and cleaning with Buford Family Dental to prevent any causes of gum disease to occur in your mouth. We look forward to inviting you into our state-of-the-art and very cool dental office where you can maintain your oral health and stay cool all at the same time this summer!