A dentist has discussed the risks that may be associated with a dry mouth, explaining that it could be a symptom of a list of serious illnesses.
Dr Azad Eyrumlu, who works at leading dental firm Banning Dental Group, says that it is worth keeping an eye on.
WalesOnline reports that you should never ignore a dry mouth as it could be a serious condition like HIV or Sjogren’s syndrome.
Of course, it is often nothing. A lack of saliva is normal as you age, particularly if you are a smoker. It doesn't mean that you have a particularly high chance of having one of these illnesses .
Even then, it's good to know what the risks may be, as Dr Eyrumlu points out “Our bodies are incredibly complex and different parts are closely linked even though we might not always realise it."
He adds that “Sometimes poor oral health can lead to serious issues in other parts of the body, and the reverse is true in the sense that a dry mouth can be a sign something’s not right elsewhere. This can manifest itself with symptoms such as a sticky feeling in the mouth, a dry or sore throat, difficulty chewing or swallowing or even bad breath."
Here are some of the conditions that have a dry mouth as one of their symptoms:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- HIV
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes with toothpastes containing fluoride every day in the morning and the evening, as well as regular flossing and mouthwash usage.
Dr Eyrumlu says: “When you visit a dentist, we don’t just look out for your oral health. We are trained in how to spot certain wider problems with your general health, too. It’s vital to keep a close eye on your own health and if you do notice persistent symptoms of a dry mouth then you must highlight this with your GP.”
It is also recommended that you visit a dentist every six months, however that is currently difficult due to long waiting times caused by lockdowns.
If you are concerned about a dry mouth, you should contact your GP.
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