WHAT IS DRY MOUTH Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent tooth decay. Prescription and over the counter medications are the most common cause of dry mouth. You want to prevent dry mouth, if possible, because it can cause difficulty in tasting, chewing or swallowing. It also allows plaque to build up on your teeth faster, leading to higher risk of cavities. Dry mouth can also lead to bad breath, soreness of the mouth, gum disease and difficulty in wearing dentures. To ease the discomfort, you may try: Drink plenty of water Avoid smoking Avoid alcohol and caffeine Chew sugar-free gum Regular dental visit Bremen Family Dentistry Dr. Doug Tolle, DDS 1712 W. Plymouth St. Bremen, IN 46506 574-546-2851 BremenFamilyDentistry.com WHAT IS DRY MOUTH Dry mouth (also called xerostomia) is caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep your mouth moist, which helps prevent tooth decay. Prescription and over the counter medications are the most common cause of dry mouth. You want to prevent dry mouth, if possible, because it can cause difficulty in tasting, chewing or swallowing. It also allows plaque to build up on your teeth faster, leading to higher risk of cavities. Dry mouth can also lead to bad breath, soreness of the mouth, gum disease and difficulty in wearing dentures. To ease the discomfort, you may try: Drink plenty of water Avoid smoking Avoid alcohol and caffeine Chew sugar-free gum Regular dental visit Bremen Family Dentistry Dr. Doug Tolle, DDS 1712 W. Plymouth St. Bremen, IN 46506 574-546-2851 BremenFamilyDentistry.com