Diagnosing Xerostomia or Dry Mouth

During or prior to a person’s experience of xerostomia, common symptoms usually appear, causing discomfort in the mouth. The thickening of saliva and inflammation of different areas in the mouth become evident when xerostomia occurs. This condition can do more damage than a person may realize. It can even affect an individual’s social wellbeing. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is primarily characterized by the lack of sufficient saliva in the mouth. Many people experience this condition due to natural factors, such as dehydration, sinus infections, and colds. However, recurring or persistent xerostomia may require a person to consult the dentist immediately. Aside from an uncomfortable feeling in the mouth, xerostomia can cause cracked lips, sore throat, and halitosis. In Highland Park, Illinois, dentists conduct different tests to identify what triggers the condition. Once determined, the cause of xerostomia is treated by dentists. This is the most efficient way of treating xerostomia, since the condition itself cannot be cured. In some cases, xerostomia is a symptom of an underlying dental disease. One of the most usual causes of xerostomia is medication. There are many medicines that contain substances that interfere with the salivary production cycle of the human mouth. Medications such as anticholinergics, anorexiants, and antihypertensives are proven to have chemicals that disrupt the production cycle of salivary glands. However, Highland Park dentists don’t usually recommend for patients to completely stop taking these medication. Instead, dentists recommend a decrease in the dosage or the intake of similar medications that don’t affect the mouth’s salivary glands. Just like substances in medications, the tobacco in cigarettes affects the production of saliva in the mouth, too. Tobacco may even damage the salivary glands themselves. This is why many Highland Park dentists advise their patients against smoking. The avoidance of smoking does not only alleviates xerostomia, but also helps a person maintain good oral health. Aside from treating the causes of xerostomia, a Highland Park dentist may also recommend prophylactic procedures for people suffering from the condition. These procedures prevent the development of cavities, which is highly likely in people with dry mouth. Dentists may also advise patients to regularly undergo professional dental cleaning, to remove bacterial buildup.