Dry mouth is a condition that affects a number of people. For those that suffer from this condition, frequent thirst, difficulty swallowing, a tingling sensation and an overall dry feeling in their mouth are all common symptoms. Dry mouth is a condition that can be treated. If you're suffering from this oral concern, learn what can cause the problem and how you can solve it.

Common Causes

Medications

If you're taking prescription medication, this could be the cause of your dry mouth. There are upwards of 400 different medications that are known to cause this problem, including those formulated to treat depression, high blood pressure and cancer.

As a side-effect, these medications suppress the amount of saliva your salivary glands are able to produce, leading to dry mouth. Take a quick look at your medications to see if this is a listed side-effect as your physician will be able to offer you options to resolve the issue.   

Dehydration

Dehydration can also lead to problems with dry mouth. Dehydration doesn't just occur when you're in the middle of the desert and your body is starved of water. Engaging in a strenuous activity that causes you to sweat profusely for an extended period can also cause dehydration.

If you're sick with a stomach virus that is causing you to vomit frequently, this can also cause you to become dehydrated. Both of these activities cause you to lose an excessive amount of fluid from all over your body, including your mouth.

Solutions

If you're dealing with dry mouth, your first step should be to speak with your dental provider to find out the best, long-term solution. However, in the meantime, there are a number of things you can do on your own to help manage your dry mouth.

Chewing gum – Grab a piece of gum and start chewing away. When you chew, this automatically causes your salivary glands to produce saliva, which can help minimize your symptoms. To protect your oral health, choose a sugarless option.

Water – Drinking more water is an excellent way to help minimize your dry mouth issues. More water consumption doesn't just increase moisture in your mouth, it also lowers the risk of dehydration, which can actually lower your risk of dry mouth.

If you are still unsure why you're dealing with dry mouth, or what to do, it's time to visit your dentist, like the one found at http://www.nwidentist.com/, to help you get to the bottom of the problem.