Dry mouth is annoying and often uncomfortable. Even worse, it’s bad for your oral health. Saliva helps rid your mouth of bacteria and other cavity-causing substances. So a lack of saliva leaves you more prone to dental decay. The good news is, we can help you beat dry mouth.

To visit our Visalia, CA office, call us today at 559-608-3533. In the meantime, check out our tips for getting rid of this unpleasant condition:

  • Quit Smoking – This habit does lots of bad things to your body – including your mouth. That includes drying it out. Stop smoking or using any tobacco products. 
  • Keep Yourself Hydrated – Many of us simply don’t drink enough water. It can help relieve a dry mouth problem. Your goal for daily intake should be half an ounce for every pound of your body weight. Some of the water can come from foods with a high water content, like cucumbers or melon. Cut back on caffeine too, since it has a diuretic effect. 
  • Get Laser Treatment at Our Office – Our dentists can use a low-power laser to stimulate your salivary glands. With this stimulation, they will produce more saliva. Unlike over-the-counter products that promise dry mouth relief, the laser offers more lasting results if your condition is chronic. 
  • Make Medication Changes – Many common medications can cause dry mouth. Muscle relaxants, antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants can all be problematic. It’s a good idea to review what you are taking with your physician. He or she may be able to suggest substitutions that won’t aggravate this condition. 
  • Put a Humidifier in Your Bedroom – Running a humidifier while you sleep keeps the air moist. This keeps your mouth – and the rest of you too – more comfortable. If you experience snoring, headaches, and daytime fatigue, you may want to be evaluated for sleep apnea. This disorder dries out your mouth and throat. We can get a custom-made oral appliance for you to lessen your symptoms, including dry mouth. 
  • Try Sugarfree Gum or Mints – Chewing sugarfree gum or sucking on sugar-free candy will spur saliva production. For an added cavity-fighting benefit, look for xylitol on the list of ingredients. 

Want to beat dry mouth? Call Sequoia Dental Office today at 559-608-3533 to schedule an appointment, or make one online.