In addition to avoiding possible triggers such as alcohol or tobacco, to avoid having a dry mouth it is important to drink water throughout the day, to keep it properly hydrated.
Under normal conditions, the mouth is kept constantly hydrated; this serves to ensure the production of saliva, to avoid dry mouth syndrome and to ensure control of body temperature (facilitated by humidity).
In some circumstances, however, the condition of the oral cavity changes . One of the most important changes is excessive dryness of the mouth, or dry mouth syndrome , what is medically called xerostomia.
What are the causes of dry mouth syndrome?
Dry mouth can result from various causes, including:
- Dehydration.
- Reaction to decongestant drugs.
- Consumption of tobacco.
- Consumption of alcohol.
- Chemotherapy.
- Disease: HIV, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease.
- Menopause .
- Strong allergies.
Saliva and dryness
Saliva, the liquid produced by the salivary glands, plays an important role in the health of the mouth and in the digestive process. When the mouth is dry, there are many complaints.
- Without saliva, the process of chewing and swallowing food is virtually impossible.
- Excessive dryness of the oral cavity is also linked to the appearance of ulcers or cracks.
- The absence of saliva can cause candidiasis and halitosis.
Dryness can also involve the throat , thereby affecting breathing.
More data on dry mouth
It is a disorder that can affect anyone, but women are more prone to it.
This is due to the fact that saliva production in women is physiologically lower than in men. Also, menopause is one of the triggers.
The presence of dental prostheses or false teeth is another predisposing factor. The implants, in fact, block the saliva and hinder the correct hydration of the mouth.
Tips to avoid dry mouth
In the pharmacy it is possible to buy products that stimulate the production of saliva; however, there are great natural alternatives that help combat dry mouth.
1. Drink water throughout the day
For proper hydration of our body, it is necessary to drink about eight glasses of water a day. Drinking little is one of the factors that can cause dry mouth.
Fluid intake occupies an important place in our diet and must be done regularly throughout the day.
Water is, of course, the drink of choice.
2. The ginger
The good properties of ginger help fight numerous health problems, including dry mouth syndrome.
Its consumption stimulates salivation, therefore it helps to keep the oral cavity moist.
To get this effect do this:
- Cut a piece of ginger and chew it for 3/4 minutes.
- Repeat at least 3 times a day.
3. Lemon juice
Often just cutting a lemon or smelling it automatically increases saliva production. This reaction is due to its acidity and its unmistakable flavor.
The ideal, therefore, is to take advantage of this effect and at the same time the great health benefits.
- To combat dry mouth, you can make a natural lemonade with very little sugar and drink it several times a day.
4. Cayenne pepper
Chilli pepper is also able to stimulate the salivation process , so it rightfully enters the list of natural remedies for dry mouth.
- Adding a pinch to your dishes can be an appetizing solution to the problem. The most suitable recipes for this spicy ingredient are probably soups.
