A dry mouth might simply be down to factors like ageing or having one too many at the pub, but it could also flag up more serious health issues. Dr Azad Eyrumlu, from Banning Dental Group, highlighted: “A dry mouth can be a sign something’s not right elsewhere.
“This can manifest itself with symptoms such as a sticky feeling in the mouth, a dry or sore throat, difficulty chewing or swallowing or even bad breath. Certain health conditions such as a stroke, diabetes or Alzheimer’s disease can show themselves in this way, while these symptoms can also be an indicator of an autoimmune disorder such as HIV or Sjogren’s syndrome.
“When you visit a dentist, we don’t just look out for your oral health. We are trained in how to spot certain wider problems with your general health, too. It’s vital to keep a close eye on your own health and if you do notice persistent symptoms of a dry mouth then you must highlight this with your GP.”
Dr Eyrumlu pinpoints dry mouth as a potential red flag for:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- HIV
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
Xerostomia, a condition where our salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist, plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Saliva helps neutralise acids produced by bacteria and wash away food particles, preventing tooth decay.
It also contains vital enzymes that aid digestion, ensuring our bodies absorb necessary vitamins and nutrients. Regular dental check-ups every six months are advised to maintain good oral hygiene and monitor any potential issues, reports the Mirror.
Dental experts also suggest brushing your teeth for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, regular flossing, and using mouthwash.