Dry mouth is an uncomfortable occurrence that could lead to notable oral care issues. A significant percentage of people experience this problem while sleeping.
Mountain View Dental, which serves the residents of Pleasant View and surrounding Utah cities, invites our current and future patients to continue reading on for a discussion about dry mouth during sleep, its nighttime causes, possible complications, and potential remedies.
Dry Mouth Overview
Dry mouth, known in dental terms as xerostomia, is characterized by decreased saliva production. Said occurrence causes the impacted individual’s mouth to feel dry and sticky.
That said, the condition might also be accompanied by other untoward physical manifestations such as chapped or cracked lips, a sore throat, difficulty speaking or eating, and a burning sensation in or around the mouth.
Causes Of Dry Mouth During Sleep
The ailment has several causes. Some are the result of natural events. However, others might indicate underlying conditions or illnesses. Said events include:
The Normal Salivary Gland Production Cycle
Saliva is produced by bodily components called the salivary glands. Researchers have found that it is relatively normal for these systemic features to reduce production during the evening hours.
Medication Side Effects
Dry mouth is a side effect of numerous medications. Therefore, when taken during the evening, such drugs might increase one’s risk of developing the annoying malady.
Mouth Breathing
Medical conditions such as nasal allergies, upper respiratory infections, and sleep apnea may cause individuals to breathe through their mouths. Over time, such action could precipitate dry mouth development.
Dehydration
Many people simply do not drink enough water or lose systemic concentrations of said substance for a variety of health or lifestyle factors. Dry mouth is often a symptom of dehydration.
Miscellaneous Illnesses
Occasionally, dry mouth can be symptomatic of autoimmune disorders such as Sjogren’s syndrome.
Possible Complications
If left untreated, dry mouth could foster the development of several potentially serious dental concerns.
Arguably, the most common issue is tooth decay and subsequent gum disease. Saliva plays a crucial role in the digestion process, in addition to eliminating potentially detrimental bacteria and other pathogens.
Accumulations of these organisms could result in cavities, dental infections, gum disease, and, ultimately, tooth loss.
That said, dry mouth can render everyday activities like chewing, swallowing, or even talking far more challenging.
Moreover, a chronically dry mouth might indicate a significant underlying ailment’s presence.
Potential Remedies
Fortunately, dry mouth is easily fixable. The specific therapeutic protocol chosen by an impacted subject’s physician or dental professional could depend upon the specific underlying problem.
However, common remedies include drinking larger quantities of water, altering medications or dosages when possible, or using specially-prescribed mouthwashes and chewing gum.
Should the condition be the manifestation of an underlying health malady, appropriately addressing said ailment might provide relief.
Contacting Mountain View Dental
Those experiencing dry mouth or any other type of dental concern are encouraged to contact us. Our friendly and experienced staff perform their craft in a professional and comfortable environment. For more information about us or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website to contact us today.
