London SE1 dentists say ignoring xerostomia can be dangerous

London SE1 dentists say ignoring xerostomia can be dangerous

25 / 11 / 2010

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is the condition where an underproduction of saliva, the mouth’s natural defence against bacteria, causes an imbalance with unpleasant consequences. Not only is xerostomia an unpleasant feeling but it is also the cause of bad breath and can lead to an increased chance of many other dental and oral conditions.

Saliva not only moistens the mouth but it also neutralises bacteria and washes away food particles stuck in the teeth. There are a number of reasons that can adversely affect the production of saliva such as medication you may be taking for other conditions, radiotherapy and also because of a general dehydration. We have all experienced that feeling of having a really dry mouth when we are thirsty and xerostimia is just a chronic case of that feeling. Not very pleasant, I’m sure you’ll agree.

A lack of saliva also puts you at much greater risk of gum disease. This is particularly dangerous given the recent discovery that gum disease is linked to heart disease and potentially fatal heart attacks. This is because the infection can easily get into the bloodstream and block the arteries.

London SE1 dentists recommend that should be suffering from dry mouth, or suspect that you are, you need to make an appointment to have the condition checked and examined for possible causes. The longer the condition remains untreated, the greater risk it poses for your oral health. Try to improve your oral hygiene to compensate, drink plenty of water and avoid eating foods with a high salt content. But most importantly, never ignore the problem in the top that it might go away.