Dry mouth is medically known as xerostomia. It is a condition where a person’s mouth produces very little saliva. Since saliva is the body’s way of rinsing away bacteria, having very little rinsing can become a problem. Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of reasons: medication, autoimmune diseases, advanced age, hormonal changes, or lifestyle factors. Lifestyle choices that can cause dry mouth are smoking, alcohol use, or excessive consumption of caffeine. Dry mouth can cause an overpopulation of bacteria in the mouth because saliva is not present to rinse it all away. An overpopulation of bacteria can cause issues for your teeth and gums.
It can cause issues for your dental implant
The abundance of bacteria from dry mouth can cause an increased risk of decay and gum disease. An increase in problematic bacteria can also increase your risk for peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is when the tissue surrounding your dental implant becomes inflamed and infected. It can lead to early loss of your dental implant and the restoration prosthesis such as a dental crown. When you have spent your time, money, and comfort on a dental implant, you want it to last. Protecting it from potential harm even from that of dry mouth is important.
Dealing with dry mouth
Because there are so many potential causes of dry mouth, it is important to first pinpoint your cause. If it is caused by medication, you may be able to talk to your doctor about a change or a supplement. Changing your lifestyle by reducing sugar, caffeine, tobacco, or alcohol may help. Sucking on ice chips or sipping on water throughout the day can help keep your mouth lubricated. Chewing on sugar-free gum can induce saliva production. Using a humidifier at night can help with hydration.
Dry mouth should not be ignored
If you think you may have dry mouth, talk to us before complications arise. To schedule a consultation with Santa Rosa Oral Surgery, call 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).
