If you’ve been told you have xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, you’re not alone. Many studies show that at least 25% of adults have dry mouth, and that number goes up to 40% in people over the age of 55.
Even though dry mouth is amongst the most common oral health issues, it’s not discussed very often. This has led to some misinformation about it, and perhaps led you to believe you’re alone in dealing with your dry mouth. If you’re still learning about this condition, here’s what you should know about how common it is, the risk factors, and ways to prevent or treat it.
Who’s More Likely to Have Dry Mouth?
Anyone can have dry mouth, and about one in every four adults does. But studies show some people are a bit more likely than others to be affected by this condition. For example, one study found that around 27% of women had dry mouth, compared to about 21% of men who did.
Studies also found that dry mouth is more common as you get older. This is not just because of the aging process itself, but older people often need more medication. Many medications have the side effect of dry mouth. So, the more medications you take for your health, the more at risk you are of developing dry mouth.
Common reasons for dry mouth:
- Sjogren’s disease
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- C-Pap and Sleep Apnea
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- Blood pressure medications
- Sedatives
- Pain relievers
- Antidepressants
- Using alcohol, tobacco, medical marijuana, or drugs
- Diabetes
- Lupus
- Nerve problems
- Salivary gland infection
If you have any of these health issues or take these medications, you’re at risk for dry mouth. If it’s affecting your quality of life, talk to your doctor to determine the cause of your dry mouth and get help to find the relief you need.
Can You Stop Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth usually happens because of another problem, not on its own. Dry mouth is difficult to prevent since it is a symptom of certain health issues that you can’t control. Also, there are hundreds of medications that can make your mouth dry, some of which you may need to treat an important health condition, and it’s hard to avoid them all.
The best plan is to treat the problem once you notice it. This might mean getting help for the underlying health issue or trying a different medication if you can and always under the direct consultation of your physician!
If changing medications isn’t an option, or fixing the health issue won’t be immediate, it’s time to consider dry mouth treatment options. You can start by drinking more water. Eating foods with high water content, such as produce and soup, will also help.
Taking care of your oral hygiene is also of the utmost importance. Brush and floss at least twice a day and see your dentist two times a year. Most importantly, be your own best advocate. Discuss with your dentist the dry mouth you’re having. Your dentist will know about proven treatment options that include artificial saliva.
One option is Aquoral Oral Protective Spray. Aquoral’s patented technology both lubricates the mouth and creates a protective layer that locks in moisture, giving you relief for up to six hours. For convenience, Aquoral comes in a month supply of two small spray bottles. You can keep it with you in your purse or pocket and leave the other at your bedside. When your mouth feels too dry to chew, taste, swallow, or speak comfortably, just use Aquoral Spray three or four times a day.
Considering how effective and convenient it is to use, it’s no wonder that 84% of people who used it said Aquoral improved their quality of life. If you want to beat dry mouth, AquoralLive professionals are available to speak with you right now via a telehealth consult or you can download this form to talk with your doctor or dentist to see if Aquoral is right for you.