Why Is Dry Mouth Risky For Your Teeth?

A condition known as dry mouth is fairly common, and has some common causes. It can be really uncomfortable, and can also pose a threat to your dental health. Here are some tips from Centreville Dental Wellness Center in VA.

The medical term for dry mouth is xerostomia, which is pronounced zero-STO-me-ah. Some of its causes include:

  • Medications: It’s a common side effect of some drugs, which is a really good reason to read the labels.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Physical exertion coupled with improper hydration can result in dry mouth. So can smoking or chewing tobacco, and alcohol. That includes alcohol-based mouthwash; another good reason to read labels.
  • Aging: Estrogen, for example, drops in women after menopause, which may be linked to dry mouth.
  • Asthma: Inhalers can result in dry mouth. So can mouth breathing, which is often seen in people with asthma.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: Dry mouth is, in fact, a symptom of Type 2 diabetes.

Dry Mouth and Dental Health

One of the key functions of saliva is washing food debris from the mouth, and fighting the bacteria that cause cavities. A reduced saliva flow leaves you vulnerable to tooth decay, as well as gum disease, difficulty with swallowing, and a condition called burning mouth syndrome.

The most obvious solution to dry mouth is to drink more water. That often does the trick, but not always. You can also avoid salty foods, beverages with caffeine and/or alcohol, and smoking.

Another good idea is to try artificial saliva. You can find it in most drug stores, and it comes in several forms, including an oral spray, swabs, dissolving tablets, and gel.

Above all, be sure to tell us about it at Centreville Dental Wellness Center in VA. We can make a recommendation that is best for you. People from Chantilly, Dulles Airport, Western Manassas, Manasses, Clifton, Gainesville, and Haymarket trust us with their dental health, and come to our office for family and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Centreville Dental Wellness Center

703-815-0775

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

14245F Centreville Sq
Centreville, Virginia
20121

Academy of General Dentistry Fellow badge Academy of Restorative Dentistry badge American Dental Association Member logo Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry  logo Kois Center member logo Invisalign logo ICOI logo

What Our Patients Say

My experience with Dr Vakay and her team has been extraordinary. Very professional, very competent, and very caring. The culture exudes kindness and caring. Dr. Vakay's follow up with her patients is unusual in my experience . She called me in the evening to ask how I was doing. I have never had a doctor do that for me.

Tim S.

A colleague recommended Dr. Abel and my first time there was the best dental experience I have had in 43 years. I had my 2nd appt earlier this week. Another great experience. Everything from reception, cleaning, to leaving was great. The hygienist was so gentle, yet did an extremely thorough job. Excellent dental practice!!

Robin S.

The best dentist in the DMV! I have loved coming here and the office is incredible - you will not be dissatisfied and they take great care of thier patients. I would highly recommend this office.

Kelley M.

I've been coming into this office for years and every time they've been so warm and accommodating. Dr. Vakay and the whole staff really puts in every effort to make sure her patients are taken care of with the most high quality work. She fixed my Maryland Bridge so now my teeth look amazing and my smile gives me so much more confidence! I could not recommend this office enough!

Sydney C.

I have been using this practice for many years. The staff continues to be professional and thorough. The front desk staff is well versed in insurance practices and billing. They help me understand my benefits better than my insurance provider. Holly is a very professional dental hygienist who addressed several teeth and gum health issues by giving very practical tips for me to implement for better personal dental hygiene. Dr. Abel's practice is well run! They use the latest imaging technology that support accurate diagnostics. You will not be dissatisfied.

Charles I.

Professional, personable and all around AWESOME! I've been a fan since day 1 and can't say enough about this team! From the front office to the back, these folks take the edge off of "going to the dentist". Dr. Vacay leads the way with her expertise, gentle hands, and personal touches (she texted me on the evening of what I thought was a pretty minor procedure that day just to see if I was comfortable-WOW! Her assistant Christina really knows her stuff and moves with precision and a gentle touch. From the moment I walk in to the warm greetings of Sogand, Tonia, and Jessica, to the moment I walk out, I hardly remember I was "just at the dentist". Thank you, Centreville Dental Wellness Center! You make going to the dentist a pleasurable experience!!

Anastasia P.

I'm a current patient, doing a search of dentists that treat TMJ, and found Dr Vakay. Words cannot express her concern, a concrete pathway of treatment to make my mouth, my bite, all normal again. She is a wonderful find, has taken care of other issues on my teeth I'm so happy I found her! Thank you Dr Vakay for giving me my bite back!!! Also all staff from front desk to dental hygienist Could not be more satisfied!!

Marianne H.

Read Patient Reviews on Google

Leave A Review

TEXT OUR OFFICE

Text message is limited to 160 characters.

HOW IT WORKS

  1. Enter your Name.
  2. Enter your Cell Phone Number, area code first
  3. Enter your text message in the box.
  4. Click "Send Text"
  5. A copy of this text will be sent to the office and to your cell phone. The office's reply will also be sent to your cell phone where you can continue the text conversation.
Note: Mobile message and data rates from your cell phone carrier may apply.Close ClickToCall Button
NagiosCheckValue - Do not remove please