symptoms of oral and dental disorders
mouth and dental disorders
Dry Mouth
Treatment of the cause, including stopping causative medications when possible Sometimes medications to increase saliva production Saliva substitutes Regular oral hygiene and dental care When possible, the cause of dry mouth is treated. For people with medication-related dry mouth whose current medications cannot be stopped or changed, medications should be taken in the morning rather than at night, because nighttime dry mouth is more likely to cause Cavities . For all medications, easy-to-take formulations, such as liquids, should be considered. Medications that need to be placed under the tongue should be avoided. People should drink water before swallowing capsules and tablets or before placing Treatment that helps control the symptoms of dry mouth consists of measures that Increase existing saliva Replace saliva with other liquid Control cavities Medications that increase saliva production includecevimelineandpilocarpine. The main side effect ofcevimelineis nausea. The main side effects ofpilocarpineinclude sweating, flushing, and excreting large volumes of diluted urine (polyuria). Sipping sugarless fluids frequently and chewing gum that containsxylitolhelps stimulate saliva flow. Using an over-the-counter saliva substitute containing carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, orglycerinmay also help. Petroleum jelly can be applied to the lips and under dentures to relieve drying, cracking, soreness, and trauma of the lining of the mouth. A cold-air humidifier may aid mouth breathers, who typically have their worst symptoms at night. Meticulous oral hygiene is essential. People should brush (using a commercial or prescription fluoride toothpaste) and floss regularly (including just before bedtime) and use fluoride rinses or gels daily. Newer toothpastes with added calcium and phosphates also may help prevent cavities. People should see their dentist more often for preventive dental care and plaque removal. The most effective way to prevent cavities is to use custom-fitted mouth trays filled with prescription toothpaste for at-home fluoride application, especially at night. People may prefer to apply prescription fluoride toothpaste to the teeth without using a tray. In addition, a dentist can apply asodium fluoridevarnish 2 to 4 times per year. People should avoid sugary or acidic foods and beverages and any irritating foods that are dry, spicy, or excessively hot or cold. People should especially avoid sugar near bedtime. 