A dry, sticky feeling in your mouth might not seem like a serious issue, but as time goes on, it can do more than affect comfort – it can affect your oral health, your speech, and even the way food tastes. Dry mouth is an issue that many people deal with, especially as they age or as a side effect of medication. Dr. Elam of Maegan Elam, DDS & Associates, explains that knowing how to deal with dry mouth can make a huge difference in maintaining your healthy smile.

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when your salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva. Saliva doesn’t just moisten your mouth – it’s what manages bacteria, neutralizes acid, and washes away food particles. Without it, your teeth are more likely to decay and develop gum disease. Fortunately, there are simple ways to successfully treat this condition.

1. Keep Yourself Consistently Hydrated

It sounds basic, but consistent hydration is your best defense against dryness. Sip water throughout the day instead of taking big gulps at once. Keep a refillable bottle nearby, especially if you’re on the go. Limiting coffee, alcohol, and sugary drinks also helps since they dehydrate your mouth even more.

2. Use Sugar-Free Gum or Lozenges

Chewing sugar-free gum can make your salivary glands naturally produce more moisture. Select products containing xylitol – a natural sweetener that can reduce cavity-causing bacteria. Dentists often recommend this simple habit to patients who experience a dry mouth sensation, especially during long work sessions or while traveling.

3. Follow Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene helps make your mouth feel comfortable. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste that strengthens enamel and minimizes irritation, and rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash. Brush your tongue gently to eliminate the accumulation of bacteria. If your dry mouth persists, Dr. Elam can prescribe mouth rinses or gels that are designed to treat dry mouth efficiently.

4. Breathe Through Your Nose and Not Your Mouth

Mouth breathing can lead to dryness without people realizing it. If you breathe through your mouth at night, you can expect to wake up with a sticky, dry feeling. Try running a humidifier at night to keep the air moist and reduce irritation. Taking care of nasal congestion or allergies can also get you back to breathing through your nose – an easy change with great benefits.

5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Professional care matters when addressing ongoing dryness. Your dentist in Bedford can determine the underlying cause, whether it’s medication, dehydration, or another condition. During your checkup, your dentist might recommend prescription rinses or fluoride treatments to protect your enamel and soothe irritation. If you’ve been searching online for a local Bedford dentist, this is the right time to schedule your next visit and get professional advice as per your dental needs.

Dry mouth does not have to be a part of your everyday life. By drinking plenty of fluids, using products that stimulate saliva production, and maintaining your regular dentist visits, you can maintain healthy teeth and feel better on a day-to-day basis. At Maegan Elam, DDS & Associates, Dr. Elam and the team help patients find long-term relief from this oral condition.