A leading dentist has said a dry mouth can be a sign of something more sinister going on in the body.
Although this is a common symptom experienced by many, the professional said it should never be ignored.
While it is unusually harmless, as we often produce less saliva as we grow older, or get a dry mouth from snoring, medication, smoking or too much alcohol, the symptom can be a red flag for severe illnesses such as diabetes, stroke and even HIV.
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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."
A 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 ensure your oral hygiene is in good shape and 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.
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