Summertime is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but it can also be hard on your mouth. Did you know that one of the biggest causes of tooth decay and bad breath is dry mouth? In this blog post, we’ll discuss how dry mouth can cause tooth decay and halitosis and offer solutions to help keep your mouth healthy all summer long.
But first, if you need a dentist in Raleigh, NC, be sure to book an appointment with us today. Now let’s get started.
What Exactly is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Enamel protects the inner, softer layers of your teeth from damage. Once it starts to break down, tooth decay can cause serious problems.
There are many things that can contribute to tooth decay, but one of the biggest culprits is dry mouth. When your mouth is dry, there isn’t enough saliva to wash away food and bacteria. This can lead to an increase in cavities and gum disease.
What Exactly is Halitosis?
Halitosis, or bad breath, is caused by the same things that cause tooth decay. When your mouth is dry, food and bacteria can build up and cause an unpleasant smell. Halitosis can also be a sign of gum disease. In order to avoid bad breath, you must consider the root cause: bacteria.
How Can I Prevent Dry Mouth?
There are many things you can do to prevent dry mouth.
Drink Plenty of Water Throughout the Day
We’ve all been there – that 3 p.m. feeling where your mouth is drier than the Sahara Desert. You might be tempted to reach for a sugary soda or coffee to quench your thirst, but that will only make things worse in the long run. Instead, reach for a glass of water. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is the best way to prevent dry mouth.
Not only does it keep your body hydrated, but it also washes away harmful bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. So next time you’re feeling parched, skip the soda and reach for a glass of H2O. Your body (and breath) will thank you.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
When it comes to preventing dry mouth, the best offense is a good defense. That’s why avoiding two of the biggest offenders—caffeine and alcohol—is a great place to start. Both of these substances are known for causing dehydration, which can lead to dry mouth. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it helps your body get rid of water. And while alcohol doesn’t have the same diuretic effect, it does prevent your body from absorbing and retaining water. So if you’re looking to keep your mouth moist, you’re better off steering clear of these two substances.
Chew Sugarless Gum
Did you know that chewing sugarless gum can help to prevent dry mouth? It’s true! When you chew gum, your mouth produces more saliva. This extra saliva helps to keep your mouth moist and prevents the tiny cracks that can lead to dry mouth. In addition, the act of chewing gum also helps to stimulate your gums and promote blood flow. So not only does chewing gum help to keep your mouth moist, it also helps to keep your gums healthy! So next time you’re feeling a little parched, reach for a stick of sugarless gum instead of a sugary snack. Look for a sugarless gum that contains xylitol, as this can also help reduce cavities.
Use a Humidifier
While there are many causes of dry mouth, from medications to anxiety, one of the most common culprits is simply living in a low-humidity environment. When the air around us is lacking in moisture, it can quickly lead to dehydration and all the uncomfortable symptoms that come with it.
But fear not, intrepid sufferer of dry mouth! There is hope in the form of humidifiers. By adding moisture back into the air, humidifiers can help to relieve dry mouth symptoms and prevent them from coming back. So if you’re tired of feeling like you’re constantly choking on dust bunnies, consider investing in a trusty humidifier.
Talk to Your Dentist
When it comes to dental health, there’s no such thing as oversharing. In fact, talking to your dentist about your mouth-related issues is one of the best ways to prevent dry mouth. Dentists are trained professionals who have seen it all, and they can help you come up with a plan to keep your mouth healthy or find reasons you weren’t aware of. For example, genetics could be at play. If dry mouth runs in your family, your dentist can help you find alternative solutions.
And if you’re already experiencing dry mouth, your dentist can recommend treatments that will help relieve discomfort and keep your smile shining bright. No one wants to experience tooth decay. Finding a high-quality dentist in Raleigh, NC has never been easier. So don’t be shy—book an appointment with New Hope Dental Care today and start talking about your oral health. Emergency dentists in Raleigh, NC are just a click away.