If you notice your mouth feeling sticky, have bad breath, or experience difficulty swallowing, you may have dry mouth. This oral health condition can be evaluated and treated by your dentist, but there are several factors to consider. When determining the best way to handle your dry mouth, it’s important to understand the different symptoms and causes of this condition.

Symptoms & Causes

Depending on the underlying cause of your dry mouth, you may experience a variety of symptoms. However, the most common signs of dry mouth include a dry feeling in your mouth, thick or sticky saliva, difficulty chewing or speaking, a sore throat, or a change in sense of taste.

Ultimately, dry mouth results from the salivary glands in your mouth not producing enough saliva, leaving you with that sticky feeling. A variety of elements can reduce your saliva production, including medication, aging, nerve damage, tobacco and recreational drug use, alcohol use, and other health conditions like diabetes or snoring.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Your dentist will carefully evaluate your symptoms and oral health background to determine the cause of your dry mouth. In some cases, you may require a blood test to rule out any primary medical complications that could be impacting your ability to make saliva.

If your condition is linked to an oral issue, your dentist will recommend the proper course of treatment. This may involve products like specialized mouthwash or toothpaste which help retain moisture and prevent tooth decay. You may also be prescribed a medication like Salagen® to stimulate saliva production. Your dentist will work with you to find the best treatment for your particular situation and will follow-up with you to ensure your condition is improving.

While dry mouth is not typically life-threatening, it can be frustrating to deal with. Talk to your dentist about the possible reasons behind your condition and how you can get the treatment you deserve.

Steven A. Kumasaka, DDS, is located in Kaneohe, HI, and offers a family-friendly environment for patients to receive important oral health services. Whether you’re looking for treatment for dry mouth issues or need a regular checkup, the dentists at Steven A. Kumasaka, DDS, are equipped and trained to meet your needs. To learn more about the services they provide, visit their website or call (808) 247-2240.