Songpa-gu Dentist – Is Your Mouth Always Dry?

Hello, I am Shin Seung-hwan, the director of Yonsei U-Line Dental Clinic, Garak Branch, located in Garak-dong, Songpa-gu, near Garak Market Station.

Today, I would like to talk about dry mouth, a condition many people experience but may find easy to overlook.

As the name suggests, it refers to the symptom of having a dry mouth.

You may think of it as a minor issue, but when saliva production decreases, various problems can develop in the mouth.

Why does dry mouth occur?

The main reason your mouth becomes dry is reduced saliva production.

Saliva is produced by the salivary glands, which are located below the ears, beneath the jaw, and under the tongue. If these salivary glands become inflamed or develop a stone called a salivary gland stone, saliva may not flow properly.

Saliva production may also decrease when you do not drink enough fluids or when salivary gland function declines with age.

In fact, it is known that more than 1 liter of saliva is produced per day, but this amount naturally decreases as we age.

What problems can occur when there is not enough saliva?

In addition to keeping the mouth moist, saliva plays several very important roles.

It helps prevent cavities, protects the teeth from acidic substances in food, washes away bacteria in the mouth, and helps maintain gum health.

However, when there is not enough saliva, the mouth becomes dry, making it easier for plaque and tartar to form.

This creates an environment in which gum disease can also develop more easily.

Sleeping with your mouth open or breathing through your mouth can worsen dry mouth as well.

How can dry mouth be managed?

: Drink water frequently

This is the most basic, but also the most important, management method.

However, it is best to avoid beverages high in acids and sugar, such as carbonated drinks and fruit juice.

They may cause tooth erosion.

: Use oral probiotic lozenges

Sugar-free probiotic lozenges may help stimulate the salivary glands and reduce bad breath.

: Use artificial saliva

People who produce very little saliva may try artificial saliva sprays or gel products.

They can be used much like artificial tears when your eyes are dry.

: Medication when necessary

Depending on the situation, medication that stimulates salivary gland function may be prescribed.

Consultation with a dentist or doctor is necessary for this.

: Use fluoride toothpaste

Because dry mouth makes you more susceptible to cavities, it is important to use toothpaste containing fluoride.

If necessary, you may also consider trying a product with a somewhat higher fluoride content.

If your mouth often feels dry and the unpleasant, sticky sensation persists, it may be dry mouth rather than a simple inconvenience.

If these symptoms are left untreated, they can lead to cavities or gum disease, so regular management is important.

Do not forget to take care not only to drink water, but also to manage your lifestyle habits and overall oral hygiene together!