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Dry Mouth
Reduced saliva
flow that
results in a
dry mouth is a
common problem
among older
adults. It is
caused by
certain medical
disorders and
is often a side
effect of
medications
such as
antihistamines,
decongestants,
pain killers
and diuretics.
Some of the
common problems
associated with
dry mouth
include a
constant sore
throat, burning
sensation,
problems
speaking,
difficulty
swallowing,
hoarseness or
dry nasal
passages. Left
untreated, dry
mouth can
damage your
teeth. Without
adequate saliva
to lubricate
your mouth,
wash away food,
and neutralize
the acids
produced by
plaque,
extensive decay
can occur.
Your dentist
can recommend
various methods
to restore
moisture.
Sugar-free
candy or gum
stimulates
saliva flow,
and moisture
can be replaced
by using
artificial
saliva and oral
rinses.
Dry mouth is a
potential side
effect of
numerous
medications
(prescribed and
over-the-counter).
Among them are
antihistamines,
decongestants,
painkillers,
high blood
pressure
medications,
muscle
relaxants,
drugs for
urinary
incontinence,
Parkinson’s
disease
medications,
antidepressants
and many
others. Drying
irritates the
soft tissues in
the mouth,
which can make
them inflamed
and more
susceptible to
infection.
Without the
cleansing
effects of
saliva, tooth
decay and other
oral health
problems become
more common.
Patients using
oral inhalers
for asthma
often develop
oral
candidiasis, an
oral fungal
infection, and
are encouraged
to rinse their
mouths with
water after
using the
inhaler.
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