CAUSES OF DRY MOUTH AT NIGHT

Citracado Dental Group • Feb 26, 2021

From time to time, it’s normal to feel a little parched and experience a fleeting moment of cotton mouth.

A glass of water or chewing gum is usually the remedy to reverse sudden mouth dryness.

But, what happens if dry mouth becomes more common? What if you wake up night after night with this symptom? Xerostomia is a form of dry mouth can occur frequently and typically is worse at night. Here are some things to know about xerostomia and its implication on your oral health.

The sensation of dry mouth varies from person to person but is typically described as a dry or sticky feeling in the mouth. If you’ve ever had cotton mouth, you know how thirsty it’ll make you feel. Many people experience dry mouth without noticing it, and may discover this during a dental exam or dental hygiene visit.

Some people with more severe cases can develop mouth sores and dryness of the throat. Burning, tingling and redness of the tongue or palate are also possible. Other symptoms can include a sore throat and dry nasal passages.

Dry mouth can be caused by a number of conditions or situations. It’s becoming more common with patients who take various prescription medications. Xerostomia, or dry mouth is a side effect of at least half of all prescription drugs, and may be compounded by the number of medications used.

Nighttime dry mouth

Dehydration can be a common cause of nighttime dry mouth. So, it’s important to understand what caused the dehydration, which is triggered by illness, blood loss, sweating and other causes.
Smoking and other lifestyle choices can lead to nighttime dry mouth.
Sleep apnea, and nasal congestion or allergies are additional risk factors.

Other causes of dry mouth

Many prescription or over-the-counter medicines have this side effect.
Autoimmune conditions can impede the body’s ability to produce bodily fluids, which can contribute to the development of dry mouth.
Nerve damage, head and neck injuries, or radiation treatment to the head and neck slow down salivary glands and cause dry mouth.
Seasonal allergies and some infections can be common causes.

As you learn more about your triggers, you can take actions to reduce or eliminate episodes of extreme dry mouth at night. For instance, if you suspect a medication is to blame, speak to your doctor about the issue and see if there’s an alternative treatment.

Dry mouth sufferers can also use a prescription-strength oral rinse that helps bring back moisture. Other medications work by inducing saliva production. Rinses and sugarless gum containing Xylitol are shown to be effective in improving saliva flow. If the dry mouth is caused by an underlying condition, the only way to address it may be through treating the root cause.

Xerostomia can be a serious issue for dental patients who find themselves with unusual new decay or bleeding gums, in spite of good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Your dental provider should be able to assist you in managing this challenging problem.

Home treatment and natural remedies can reduce nighttime dry mouth. The first and obvious natural treatment is consuming generous amounts of water throughout the day. Limiting caffeine and alcoholic beverages is also another step in the right direction. A good oral health routine is also beneficial.

If nighttime mouth dryness impacts your quality of sleep or causes discomfort, it’s a good idea to reach out to your healthcare and dental providers to learn more.

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Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.