Poor oral health can lead to serious issues elsewhere in the body – and conversely a dry mouth can be a sign something is not right elsewhere.
It’s a very common symptom, but one we should never ignore, says a leading dentist.
While usually benign – we often don’t produce as much saliva as we grow older and a dry mouth can often be linked to snoring, medication, smoking or too much alcohol – the symptom can be a red flag for serious illnesses including diabetes, stroke and even HIV.
Dr Azad Eyrumlu, of leading private dental firm Banning Dental Group, says our bodies are incredibly complicated and different parts are closely linked, even though we might not always realise it.
He says: “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.
“Certain health conditions such as a stroke, diabetes or Alzheimer’s disease can show themselves in this way, while these symptoms can also be an indicator of an autoimmune disorder such as HIV or Sjogren’s syndrome.”
Dr Eyrumlu added: “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.”
Interested in our Health Newsletter? Sign up to get the latest news here - from weight loss tips to Covid updates
Dry mouth could be a red flag for:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- HIV
- Alzheimer's Disease
Sjogren’s syndrome
Xerostomia is a condition where our salivary glands fail to produce sufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva plays a key role in oral health as it helps neutralise acids produced by bacteria and also wash away food particles.
It’s essential to prevent tooth decay, and also contains important enzymes that aid the digestive process, ensuring our bodies get the vitamins and nutrients they need.
It’s recommended to see a dentist every six months to make sure your oral hygiene is in good shape and to keep track of any developing problems.
Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes with toothpastes containing fluoride twice a day, as well as regular flossing and the use of mouthwash.
