Microsoft word - xerostomia.doc

The dental term "xerostomia" means dryness of the mouth due to a decreased function of the glands that produce saliva. It is the sensation of dryness It is experienced when saliva flow decreases by half of its normal flow It affects up to 10 million people in the UK It can lead to an increase in tooth decay, soreness & infections of the mouth It can be exacerbated by over 400 prescription drugs If you think you experience dry mouth, here are some common signs and symptoms. burning sensation of the tongue difficulty eating, especially dry foods difficulty with speech often thirsty difficulty wearing dentures dry, cracked lips, and at the corners of the mouth impaired taste can cause difficulties in chewing & swallowing Dry mouth or decreased saliva flow can be caused by: Systemic diseases such as Sjogren's Syndrome, diabetes & Parkinson's disease) Surgery to the salivary glands Radiation therapy - radiation can result in permanent damage to the salivary glands Drugs or medications - over 400 drugs cause dry mouth as a side effect. The more Diuretics e.g. Bendroflumthiazide, Furosemide Anti-hypertensives e.g. Enalapril & Ramipril,Lisinopril Antidepressants e.g.: Amitriptyline, Doxepin Anti-psychotics e.g.: Promazine, Haloperidol, Loxapine Anti-Parkinson’s e.g. Procyclidine, beperiden Hcl Appetite Suppressants e.g. Benzphetamine, Phentermine Everyone has a dry mouth once in a while, if they are nervous, under stress or following exercise. But if you have a dry mouth all or most of the time, it can be uncomfortable and can lead to serious problems. Saliva does more than keep the mouth moist. • It helps digest food • It protects teeth from decay • It prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth • It makes it possible for you to chew and swallow • It contains enzymes • It is antibacterial • It acts as a buffer to plaque acids • Helps you taste your food • Sip water or sugar free drinks often • Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry • Sip water or sugar free drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier. It may also improve the taste of food • Chew sugar free gum or suck on sugar free sweets to stimulate saliva flow • Don't use tobacco or alcohol as they can dry out the mouth • Try products like biotene or bioextra which contain, moisturizing gels/sprays/gum/toothpastes & mouthwashes to help with dryness • Avoid spicy or salty foods as they may cause pain in a dry mouth

Source: http://www.thesmilerooms.co.uk/Downloads/Prevention/xerostomia.pdf