Dry mouth is a result of insufficient saliva produced by the salivary glands leading to harmful side effects. Signs of dry mouth should be addressed promptly to prevent additional dental problems from developing.
Dry mouth is also known as xerostomia or dry mouth syndrome, which is a reduced or nonexistent flow of saliva resulting in chronic dryness of the oral cavity. Many patients experience this oral condition, especially the elderly. Although dry mouth is not considered a disorder, it can lead to several side effects in the mouth and the rest of the body.
You can detect the presence of dry mouth by knowing its symptoms. Symptoms of dry mouth, besides a dry feeling in the mouth, include:
– Difficulty swallowing, chewing, spitting, or talking
– Tenderness in the oral cavity
– Sores or split skin in the corner of the mouth
– Bad breath
– A sore throat and hoarseness
– Changes in your sense of taste
– Difficulty wearing dentures
Be aware of any medications you’re taking that could include dry mouth as a side effect, and notify Dr. J. Whitley Wills’s dentist office right away if your mouth has felt dry for over 48 hours.
If you suspect you are struggling with dry mouth, please call 901-726-9525 today to schedule an appointment at Dr. J. Whitley Wills for dry mouth treatment in Memphis, Tennessee.