What Seniors Need to Know About Dry Mouth
December 30, 2015
Senior Care in Redwood City CA
Dry mouth is a common problem for seniors, but it is not something that they must suffer through. In fact, dry mouth should be treated as it can lead to other dental health problems. Here are some facts that seniors should know about dry mouth and what to do if dry mouth is affecting their quality of life.
Causes of Dry Mouth:
Dry mouth is not a natural part of aging. In fact, the reason why most seniors get dry mouth is because it is actually a side effect of several medications. Medications that are used to treat chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, depression, and allergies often come with this unpleasant side effect. Since these medications are usually necessary for seniors to take, they must seek out ways to relieve the dry mouth side effect.
Consequences of Dry Mouth:
Dry mouth isn’t just an uncomfortable condition, it can actually lead to dental health problems and/or a decrease in quality of life. Since dry mouth is caused by a reduction in saliva production, seniors suffering from dry mouth may have a hard time tasting food, swallowing, talking, and even digesting. Reduced amount of saliva can also lead to sores in the mouth and on the lips, bad breath, and a higher risk of tooth decay. For this reason, seniors who suffer from dry mouth must be vigilant about taking care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and using mouth wash daily. It is also important for seniors to continue to get regular dental check ups to detect any serious dental problems early on and to work with the dentist to find solutions for dry mouth.
Treatments for Dry Mouth:
Fortunately, there are many things that seniors can do to relieve dry mouth. One of the most important things to do is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of extra water, especially during meals. Water can help rinse food particles out of the mouth (since there is not enough saliva present to do this job) and it can relieve the uncomfortable dry mouth feeling. Water is the best thing to drink for dry mouth relieve. In fact, beverages that are sugary, caffeinated, or that contain alcohol can actually make dry mouth even worse. Another way to help relieve dry mouth is to use an over-the-counter oral moisturizing rinse. These rinses are specifically designed to relieve dry mouth symptoms.
If you or an aging loved one are looking for senior care services in Redwood City, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care. Call today!
Santa Clara County: (408) 600-2760
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Source:http://seniorsoralhealth.org/dry-mouth/?doing_wp_cron=1450640836.4383480548858642578125