DEFINITION:

Xerostomia (dry mouth) is an unhealthy and uncomfortable condition. Since saliva is essential to humidify and clean the mouth by neutralizing the acids produced by dental plaque and by to getting rid of the dead cells, a dry mouth can lead to infections (bacterial or fungal). Dry mouth can increase the risk of gingivitis (gum disease) and tooth decay.

SYMPTOMS:

•Uncomfortable feeling of dry and sticky mouth.

•Frequent thirst.

•Injuries in the mouth.

•Dry throat, leading to constant pains.

•Burning feeling in the mouth, especially on the tongue.

•Dry and red tongue.

•Difficulty speaking, tasting, chewing, or swallowing.

•Bad breath (halitosis).

TREATMENTS:

•Mouthwash can be prescribed.

•If not improved, a medication stimulating saliva production (i.e. Salagen) can be prescribed.

•If caused by medications, the physician can adjust the dosage or substitute the medication by another one.

PREVENTION:

•Suck on a sugar-free candy or chew gum.

•Drink a lot of water to keep the mouth hydrated.

•Protect the teeth by brushing with a toothpaste containing fluoride and by using a fluoridated mouthwash.

•Breath through the nose instead of the mouth.

•Use a humidifier.

SOURCES:     Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (www.wikipedia.org).

                            WebMD, better information, better health (www.webmd.com).