Whether you wake up in search of water or find yourself thirsty in the middle of a hot day, dry mouth is a common occurrence. However, chronic dry mouth is not only a cause of discomfort but may also point to serious underlying issues or lifestyle habits. From a dental standpoint, insufficient saliva production can promote tooth decay and gum disease, leading to increased visits to the dentist. Here's a closer look at what commonly leads to this condition and what you can do to boost your overall health.

What Leads to Chronic Dry Mouth?

1. Smoking

Tobacco use has been shown to have a significant health impact, from an increased risk of heart disease to a higher likelihood of tooth loss, so quitting is recommended by professionals across all medical fields. One of the many downsides of smoking is that it impedes your body's ability to produce saliva. While increasing your water intake can help supplement saliva production, your best bet for long-term benefits is to give up the habit. 

2. Dehydration 

Remembering to drink water often enough isn't as easy as it seems, and many people are more dehydrated than they realize. Insufficient water intake can cause headaches, nausea, kidney stones, dizziness, and dry mouth. 

Reduced saliva production means plaque-causing bacteria spend longer in the mouth, leading to more cavities and gum disease risk without a dentist's help. Be sure to drink water throughout the day, particularly when you're physically active.

3. Illness

Dry mouth can be indicative of certain illnesses, such as lupus and Crohn's disease, which affect the glands that produce mucus and saliva in your body. The condition is also common in people who have untreated or undiagnosed diabetes, as when blood sugar levels are too high, the body doesn't produce enough saliva. Visit your primary care physician if you feel your mouth is consistently dry.

4. Medications 

Many conditions don't have dry mouth as a side effect, but the medication associated with them might. For instance, those who have ADHD commonly experience dry mouth due to Adderall. Chemotherapy drugs and high blood pressure, pain, and decongestant medications can also exacerbate this condition. 

It can be hard to combat dry mouth associated with necessary medications. If no alternative medicines are available, keep mints, gum, or mouthwash nearby to promote saliva production in addition to drinking more water.

5. Weather

A lack of humidity in the air can cause dry mouth. Dry air means moisture escapes your body more readily than it does on humid days, lowering the production of saliva. 

Checking the humidity index can prepare you to drink more water. Additionally, having a humidifier at home can help moisten the air, especially during the winter season when the heat is on.

To eliminate dry mouth and promote a healthy smile, visit Gladstein Dental Center. For nearly 40 years, Dr. Gladstein and his highly trained staff have provided comprehensive dental care services to families throughout New Britain, CT. Their services include cosmetic dentistry, crowns, periodontal disease, and regular cleanings. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (860) 223-1162 to schedule an appointment with this trusted dentist.