Known scientifically as xerostomia or hyposalivation, dry mouth can be really uncomfortable for patients. This condition is caused when the glands responsible for producing saliva are not functioning optimally. While dry mouth cannot be diagnosed as an ailment on its own, it is oftentimes a symptom of another condition. The condition usually causes a lot of discomfort, and if it is not checked can become a real problem. There are home treatments that can make it better. This article discusses a few of these home treatments for dry mouth.
Home Treatments For Dry Mouth
Water:
One of the major causes of dry mouth is dehydration. You are therefore sure to reduce the effect of this condition by drinking water and staying hydrated all through the day. Have a bottle of water beside you at all times, so you can take a sip at regular intervals.
Stop Dehydrating Habits:
As mentioned earlier, dehydration is one of the leading causes of dry mouth. As a result, it is important to reduce habits that cause dehydration or even stop them altogether. Below are some ways to do that.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking tobacco causes dry mouth, as it leaves you dehydrated. Reducing the frequency of your smoking or quitting altogether will treat dry mouth.
- Cut Down On Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol is another substance that typically leaves you dehydrated, causing dry mouth. Cut down on your alcohol consumption and drink water instead.
- Reduce Caffeine Intake: Beverages containing caffeine can also cause dry mouth through dehydration. It is, therefore, best to reduce the consumption of coffee and tea that contains caffeine.
- Reduce Sugar Intake: Like all the other substances above, sugar can also be a cause of dehydration. It is, therefore, best to reduce sugar intake to deal with dry mouth in the home.
Sugarless Candies and Gum:
Things like sugarless candies and gums can keep your mouth hydrated, and work against dry mouth. While the relief from these substances is usually short-term, it helps a lot. Sugarless candies that help dry the mouth include lozenges and cough drops. For sugarless gums, gums that contain xylitol are your best options.
Do Not Breathe Through Your Mouth:
It may not seem to be a big deal, but breathing through your mouth can worsen dry mouth. It does not stop at that, as it can cause other dental issues. Try to breathe through your nose only at all times.
Herbal Remedies:
There are herbal remedies for dry mouth that you can make use of at home. These remedies help to stimulate saliva production in the mouth. Some of the best herbal remedies to use include aloe vera, ginger, marshmallow root, and sweet pepper.
Humidifier:
This might seem far-fetched, but having a humidifier is a great way to ease dry mouth. A humidifier adds more moisture to the environment, trying helping to improve hydration.
Conclusion
If you still have a dry mouth after trying the tips above, then you need to visit a dentist five dock for treatment.
