Dry mouth is essentially the result of a lack of saliva. Saliva coats the teeth and gums and protects from harmful bacteria, which helps prevent oral health problems. The causes of dry mouth vary and, if the problem persists, it may be necessary to see a dentist or doctor depending on the underlying source of the problem.
The most common causes include:
– Dehydration
– Tobacco
– Alcohol
Simple remedies like “sipping water, chewing sugar-free gum and consuming less caffeine” often work well but, left untreated, dry mouth can cause erosion of the enamel, cavities and possibly gum disease.
An informative article on the topic can be found at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-are-the-causes-of-dry-mouth/.
I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.