Is There a Connection between Dry Mouth and Periodontitis

The questions are what is Dry Mouth and can if affect teeth and gums? Let’s explore this a bit shall we?

First off  – What is Dry Mouth?

Saliva, or spit, is made by the salivary glands and is very important for a healthy mouth. It moistens and breaks down food, washes away food particles from the teeth and gums, and helps people with swallowing. In addition, saliva contains minerals such as calcium and phosphate that help keep teeth strong and fight tooth decay.

Dry mouth occurs when there is insufficient saliva production. Saliva is vital for maintaining oral health as it helps to cleanse the mouth, neutralize acids, and provide disease-fighting substances.

What are the symptoms of Dry Mouth?

• A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth.
• Trouble chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking.
• A burning or itchy feeling in the mouth or throat.
• A dry feeling in the throat.
• Cracked lips.
• A dry, rough, red, ‘hairy’, or deeply fissured/cracked appearance.
• Mouth sores.
• Recurrent infections of the mouth or the throat.
• Bad breath.
• Dryness or a feeling of stickiness in your mouth.
• Saliva that seems thick and stringy.
• Having a hard time chewing, speaking and swallowing.
• Dry or sore throat and hoarseness.
• Dry or grooved tongue.
• A changed sense of taste.
• Problems wearing dentures.
• Lipstick stuck to teeth.

Second – What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. It can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss.

How Dry Mouth Contributes to Periodontitis

Many of our patients are regimented in their dental care, but still end up in our chair.  One cause of their problems is Dry Mouth.  Dry mouth, or xerostomia, and periodontitis (advanced gum disease) are two conditions that significantly impact oral health. When they occur together, the effects can be particularly harmful. Understanding the connection between these conditions and how to manage them is crucial for maintaining healthy gums and teeth.

Here are a few ways in which Dry Mouth can be detrimental to your oral health:

1. Reduced Saliva Flow: Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. With reduced saliva, bacteria can accumulate, leading to plaque formation and gum disease.
2. Acidic Environment: Without adequate saliva to neutralize acids produced by bacteria, the oral environment becomes more acidic. This acidity can damage gums and bone structures, contributing to periodontitis.
3. Decreased Defense Mechanisms: Saliva contains enzymes and proteins that protect the gums and teeth from bacterial infection. A dry mouth lacks these protective factors, making the gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection.
4. Increased Plaque Formation: A dry mouth allows plaque to build up more quickly. Plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar buildup can lead to severe gum irritation and periodontitis.

Symptoms of Periodontitis

• – Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
• – Persistent bad breath
• – Receding gums
• – Loose or shifting teeth
• – Pain when chewing
• – Pus between teeth and gums

Managing Dry Mouth and Preventing Periodontitis

1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist. Sipping water regularly can help mitigate the effects of dry mouth.
2. Saliva Stimulants: Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies to stimulate saliva production. Consider over-the-counter saliva substitutes if necessary.
3. Oral Hygiene: Maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque buildup.
4. Regular Dental Visits: Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential. Professional cleanings can remove tartar that you cannot eliminate at home.
5. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Avoid sugary and acidic foods that can exacerbate both dry mouth and gum disease.
6. Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol: These substances can worsen dry mouth and increase the risk of periodontitis. Avoid them to protect your oral health.
7. Medication Review: If medications are causing your dry mouth, talk to your doctor or dentist. They might adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
8. Humidifier: Use a humidifier in your home, especially at night, to add moisture to the air and help keep your mouth from drying out.

Professional Treatments

For persistent dry mouth and periodontitis, book an appointment with us and we can review your options and the current conditions of your mouth. Some treatments we may use include:

• – Prescription Mouthwashes: We have a few different mouthwashes we recommend.  Some contain higher concentrations of fluoride or antibacterial agents to help manage your symptoms and others are gentler.  We can review the differences with you.

• – Saliva Substitutes or Stimulants: Prescription medications can stimulate saliva production.

• – Deep Cleaning: Scaling and root planing can remove tartar and bacteria from below the gum line, helping to treat periodontitis.

• –Laser Therapy: This minimally invasive procedure utilizes laser technology to remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gums, promoting healing and regeneration.

• – Surgery: In severe cases of periodontitis, surgical interventions may be necessary to restore gum health.

The relationship between dry mouth and periodontitis is significant and can lead to severe oral health issues if not managed properly. By understanding the causes and effects of both conditions, and taking proactive steps to address them, you can protect your gums and teeth from damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth or periodontitis, contact us today and we can look at your teeth and gums and discuss treatment and prevention.