One of the many symptoms of diabetes and other various diseases is dry mouth or Xerostomia. Sometimes, it’s the first noticeable symptom of the disease. But not everyone diagnosed with diabetes will experience it. That is why it is essential to know if dry mouth is already a diabetic symptom or something more common or severe. Thankfully, the team here at Advanced Indiana is here to help you out! Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can tell the difference and when you should see your doctor about something more serious.
Dry Mouth and Its Causes
A dry mouth is a condition in which the salivary glands in your mouth are not producing enough saliva. Saliva plays a crucial role in mouth health. Not only does it help neutralize acidity in the oral cavity, protect teeth from decay, and regulate flu and sung infections, but it also helps with digestion. Oral hygiene becomes problematic when there is an imbalance of volume and salivary chemicals in the body.
Dry mouth can occur in anyone, but it is a common symptom of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Although the exact cause is unknown, diabetic patients may experience dry mouth due to certain medications and high blood sugar or hyperglycemia.
What Does a Diabetic Dry Mouth Feel Like?
Everyone gets a dry mouth from time to time. But if you have a persistent dry mouth, you might feel or experience the following:
- Bad breath after brushing
- Chapped or cracked lips
- Mouth sores
- Loose teeth
- Wider and new spaces in between teeth
- Pain and burning sensation in the mouth and throat
- Rough tongue
- Thick stringy, and sticky spit
- Difficulty in chewing, talking, and swallowing.
The Link Between Diabetes and Dry Mouth
There is a connection between diabetes and dry mouth, and high blood sugar levels are frequently the cause. Studies have found that people with diabetes are more likely to experience concurrent dry mouth and craniofacial pain.
Diabetic patients with high blood sugar levels are more susceptible to infections and heal slower than those with blood sugar levels within the target ranges. High blood sugar and dry mouth can cause serious dental problems such as gingivitis and other infections. Diabetes also increases the risk of other oral health problems, including cavities and tooth loss.
Treatments for Dry Mouth and When To See a Doctor
While there is no single cure for dry mouth and diabetes mellitus, these conditions are best treated by addressing the underlying causes. Usually, relief is found through medication or lifestyle changes specific to each individual case.
If you have diabetes, managing your blood glucose levels may be the key to avoiding dry mouth. Take the medication as prescribed and stay away from sweet foods and beverages. If your dry mouth persists, consult with a trusted dental clinic.
Stay Hydrated
Your mouth requires fluids for saliva production. High blood sugar can cause dry mouth and dehydration due to fluid loss, so consume a lot of water. It is also necessary to drink sufficient fluids to replace the water lost through urination. Regulate liquids like coffee, alcohol, and other sugary drinks because they can dry out your mouth.
Suck on Sugar-free Candies
Increase salivation and alleviate symptoms by sucking on sugar-free gum, hard candies, or even sucking and chewing both stimulate saliva flow. Choose a sugar-free variety to prevent giving your mouth’s bacteria their preferred food.
Use Lip Balm
Using non-irritating lip balms can help dry mouth as they act as a film that covers the lip surface to keep moisture.
Proper Dental Hygiene
If you have a dry mouth, you must practice good oral hygiene. Use mouthwash and brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after every meal. Visit your dentist regularly for consultation and cleaning at least twice a year to monitor your progress and address any early concerns. Proper dental care will help reduce tooth decay and cavities risk.
Eat a Balanced and Healthy Diet
Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet can help prevent dry mouth and diabetes. Choose foods that are simple to swallow and chew for mouth moisture. Eat soft, moist foods that are cool or at room temperature, such as broths, soups, sauces, gravy, creams, and butter or margarine. Avoid dry, spicy, salty foods such as crackers, bread, bananas, and poultry. Instead, choose a high-protein source for meals and snacks, such as eggs, yogurt, and beans.
Prevent Dry Mouth and Maintain Good Oral Hygiene with Advanced Indiana!
Take steps to prevent dry mouth and diabetes by keeping your mouth healthy and improving your oral health! Whether you are looking for teeth whitening, dental implants, a tooth extraction, a root canal, or dentures, Advanced Indiana can help!
We provide complete dental care for the entire family. We are here to assist you in any way possible and answer any concerns about dental procedures and how they can benefit you and your family. Smile confidently with Advanced Indiana! Request an appointment now!
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