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Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands fail to produce enough saliva. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by preventing tooth decay, neutralizing harmful acids, and aiding digestion. If you frequently experience dry mouth, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires professional attention.

At Arch Dental Woodbury, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry mouth for patients in Woodbury, NY, and surrounding areas, including Syosset, Jericho, Plainview, Hicksville, Melville, Oyster Bay, Bethpage, Farmingdale, Huntington, Massapequa, and Amityville.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

Several factors can contribute to dry mouth, including:

• Medications: Over 400 prescription and over-the-counter drugs, including antihypertensives, antidepressants, pain relievers, and antihistamines, can cause dry mouth.

• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, lupus, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders can reduce saliva production.

• Cancer Treatments: Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can damage salivary glands.

• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeine, and dehydration can worsen dry mouth symptoms.

• Stress & Anxiety: High stress levels and depression can also contribute to reduced saliva flow.

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Recognizing dry mouth early can help prevent serious dental issues. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent thirst and the need to sip water constantly

• Difficulty swallowing and speaking

• A burning sensation or soreness in the mouth

• Dry, cracked lips or a sticky feeling in the mouth

• Altered or diminished sense of taste

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis)

• Increased risk of cavities and gum disease

The Importance of Saliva for Oral Health

Saliva plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy mouth by:

• Washing away food particles

• Neutralizing acids that cause cavities

• Preventing bacterial, fungal, and viral infections

• Aiding in digestion and taste perception

Without sufficient saliva, the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections increases significantly.

How to Manage and Treat Dry Mouth

If you are experiencing dry mouth, Arch Dental Woodbury can help. Here are some recommendations:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Use Saliva Substitutes: Over-the-counter mouthwashes, gels, and sprays can help keep your mouth moist.

• Modify Your Diet: Avoid alcohol, caffeine, smoking, citrus juices, and overly salty or dry foods.

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss twice daily, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash.

• Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free lozenges.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine dental checkups help prevent complications related to dry mouth.

Expert Dental Care in Woodbury, NY, and Nearby Areas

At Arch Dental Woodbury, we provide comprehensive care to help patients manage dry mouth effectively. We proudly serve Woodbury, Syosset, Jericho, Plainview, Hicksville, Melville, Oyster Bay, Bethpage, Farmingdale, Huntington, Massapequa, Amityville, and nearby communities.

Contact Arch Dental Woodbury Today

📍 Location: 800 Woodbury Road, Suite D, Woodbury, NY 11797
📞 Phone: (516) 921-8010
🌐 Website: ArchDentalWoodbury.com

Schedule an appointment with our expert dental team and take control of your oral health today!