Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Dry mouth problem is common. The lack of adequate saliva is more than bothersome for three out of every ten Americans. When the natural flow of saliva is reduced, you can experience trouble swallowing, pain throughout oral tissues and, nearly always, a short-cut to dental caries and gum disease. The tongue sticks, food doesn't have much taste, and digestion suffers.
Xerostomia, or dry mouth syndrome, can come with aging, or often as a side effect of many medications. Half of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experience an extreme form of xerostomia, with critical effects on their dental health. There is relief in the form of dry mouth toothpaste, special saliva-producing chewing gum, or saliva substitute solutions.
For more information regarding Xerostomia and methods of treatment, please call our office.
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