How can I relieve my dry mouth?

• ›  Carry a small water bottle so you can take frequent sips during the day
• ›  Moisten your mouth with artificial salivas as needed
• ›  Apply lip lubricants, as required
• ›  Avoid alcoholic, carbonated and caffeine-containing drinks
• ›  If acidic juices irritate your mouth, substitute fruit-flavoured drinks or milk
• ›  Avoid salty foods since they may increase your thirst
• ›  Use a humidifier or vaporizer, especially at night
• ›  Chew sugarless or dry-mouth gum with xylitol "(Trident)" or suck sugarless hard candies
• ›  Avoid dry foods such as cookies, toast and crackers, or soften them with liquids before eating
• ›  Puree foods or try soft foods like macaroni and cheese, stews, mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, canned fruits and vegetables, yogurt and ice cream
• ›  If it's too difficult to eat a full meal, try eating smaller, more frequent meals
• ›  Drink liquids with meals and use gravies, sauces, yogurt and mayonnaise to make food easier to swallow
• ›  Suck on ice chips (but don't chew them) or popsicles if their cold temperature doesn't bother you
• ›  Maintain stringent oral hygiene. Cleanse teeth and/or dentures frequently. Use fluoridated products as directed. Wash hands before and after oral care
• ›  Stop smoking
• ›  Check inside your cheeks, the roof of your mouth, your gums and tongue daily for red, white or dark patches and ulcers. If you find any, contact our office for a check
• ›  Tablets and capsules are easier to swallow if you drink a little water first, and then swallow the drug, followed by at least half a glass of water. If you still have problems, talk with your pharmacist
• ›  If you are repeatedly having to have fillings done, a re-mineralization or fluoride trays may be needed

Contact us at Croydon Dental to book an appointment to get relief for your dry mouth.