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How does dry mouth impact my patients?
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Speaking and swallowing Patients with dry mouth may experience difficulty with swallowing, mastication and speaking due to a lack of moisture and lubrication in the oral cavity. |
A change in sense of taste Saliva plays a role in our experience of taste and patients with dry mouth may find a change in their sense of taste, growing an intolerance towards spicy, salty, or sour foods and drinks. |
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A rough, dry, desert-like tongue Moisture of the tongue is maintained by the saliva. However, with a lack of salivary flow the tongue can become extremely dry, sore and red causing discomfort and even a burning feeling to the patient. |
Tooth decay Patients with dry mouth are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay. Saliva helps maintain a neutral pH in the mouth and aids with food clearance. A lack of saliva can cause difficulties in buffering the acids caused by bacteria or ingested foods. Caries as a result of dry mouth occurs on the incised or occlusal edges and in the cervical region. |
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Halitosis Due to the lack of cleansing action provided by normal salivary volume and flow, patients can experience bad breath. |
Cracked, peeling or atrophic lip A lack of moisture can cause sores on the lips, split skin at the corners of the lips and cracked, dry lips. |
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Gum disease Patients with dry mouth may be at increased risk of gum disease. With a reduced salivary flow bacteria and plaque will not be flushed from the mouth and is more likely to attack the teeth and gums. |
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