Dry Mouth – Latest Help For Xerostomia Sufferers
Over 32 million Americans suffer from dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia. And in the elderly population, those over 65 years, the prevalence approaches 25 percent and in institutionalized elders the rates may be as high as 50 percent. Causes Dry mouth can cause serious oral health problems and it is estimated that over 3,000 prescription and over-the-counter drugs have the potential to cause it. These include antacids, decongestants, narcotics, antihypertensives, antihistamines, antidepressants and diuretics. And studies have shown that the taking of multiple drugs increases the number of cases of dry mouth and even the severity. Dry mouth may also result from Sjogren’s syndrome, radiation treatment for head and neck cancers and salivary gland disease. And it is also a frequent complaint in conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and connective tissue diseases. Oral Hygiene is Key It has long been known that dental biofilm plays a major role in the cause of gingivitis, periodontitis and cavities. Dental biofilm is formed much more rapidly in a mouth that is dry because there is less saliva to flush the bacteria away. And worse, acid-forming bacteria are surviving in the acidic saliva and cause the often rampant dental decay associated with xerostomia. Although dental biofilm can’t be eliminated, the plaque it forms and its bad effects can be controlled with proper and continuous oral hygiene. Treatments Traditional treatments for dry mouth have included sugar-free gums or candy, frequent sips of water, oral rinses and taking good care of teeth and gums. The problem with conventional mouth rinses, gums and mints is that their ingredients are flushed away too quickly, limiting their effectiveness. Long-Term Delivery of Ingredients Since the ingredients delivered by traditional gums, mints, etc. don’t reside in the mouth long enough to be of much help, it’s important to find a technology that ensures that active ingredients remain in the mouth long enough (one hour or longer) to help impede the formation of biofilm and help keep teeth clean. There is a long-lasting lozenge that continuously delivers active ingredients over long periods of time to promote oral health. The ingredients used in these lozenges are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA-there is no sugar or alcohol. A unique polymer combined with essential oils, Xylitol and a moisture-retaining ingredient creates an extended contact time in the mouth to fight bacteria and help dry mouth sufferers. It also helps create a healthy pH balance in the mouth-also aiding in the oral hygiene regimen. Something New – If you’ve already tried many of the so-called remedies for dry mouth, you may want to try a long-lasting soft lozenge that helps keep your mouth moist for hours as well helping with your overall oral hygiene regimen recommended by your dentist. If you would like to learn more about helping your dry mouth visit http://www.nuvorainc.com Jim Wilson is a healthcare consultant with over 35 years experience in the health care industry. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_L_Wilson Author: James L Wilson |