More Causes Of Dry Mouth And Their Management

Radiation

Cancers of the head and neck make it necessary for patients to undergo a combination of radiation and chemotherapy. Since the position of these cancers is in close proximity to a number of very important structures, the treatment regimen followed is pretty aggressive.

During this process, some structures like the salivary glands are also exposed to radiation and they undergo collateral damage. The extent of this damage varies with the exact amount of radiation received, however, it is not uncommon for all salivary production to stop.

The damage that is done is irreversible and greatly reduces the quality of the patient’s life.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

The exact mode of inheritance of this genetic disorder is still debated although more and more doctors have started to classify it as an autoimmune disorder. What causes this immune disorder to develop is also unknown. A family history of the disease leads to a higher probability of Sjogren’s syndrome.

The most affected in this syndrome are the secretary glands of the body including the salivary glands. The amount of saliva produced is very minimal or none whatsoever. The condition is again untreatable, although it can be managed.

Management Of Dry Mouth

There are several things that are done to help patients manage their lack of saliva. The treatment usually starts off with an assessment of the amount of saliva that is being produced and to try and determine the underlying cause.

Transient infection and inflammation of the salivary glands can also cause a reduction in the amount of saliva being produced. These are easily treatable with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Any other medication that the patient is on is also examined in case they are causing the dry mouth as a side effect. If so, the identified medication is discontinued.

For situations where there is structural damage or non-modifiable factors are at play, the use of artificial saliva can also be tried. These salivary substitutes help keep the mouth moist, although they do not have the same immune system aiding functions or digestive enzymes in them.

Patients are also encouraged to take in as much fluid as possible or, at least, take in some amount of fluid at short intervals. Oral care for such patients is also very important. Without the protective and cleansing properties of natural saliva, plaque and bacteria are allowed to wreak havoc on the teeth unencumbered.

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An oral hygiene protocol that involves meticulous brushing, flossing, use of special highly fluoridated toothpaste, mouthwashes and interdental cleaning is advised. Patients should also schedule an appointment every three months with their dentist to ensure that their teeth remain healthy by getting a professional scaling done.

Every disease of the oral cavity will progress with alarming speed and root itself with tenacity into the body.

Conclusion

Dry mouth is a very serious condition that requires meticulous management by the doctor and patients themselves. It should not be ignored as it may be a symptom of something more serious.