Breathe through your nose, do not smoke, avoid acidic foods, chew sugar-free gum to help increase saliva production and reduce dry mouth.
Saliva helps to moisten and remove food particles, clean the mouth and help digest food. Saliva also prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. The mouth can easily become dry and uncomfortable if there is not enough saliva.
There are many causes of this condition such as side effects of medications, damage to the salivary glands, damage to the nerves in the head and neck due to trauma or surgery. Dehydration due to fever, sweating, vomiting, smoking, and mouth breathing also cause dry mouth.
Warning signs include a dry, itchy feeling in the mouth, throat or tongue, frequent thirst, unusual mouth sores, difficulty tasting, chewing and swallowing, and bad breath.
People with dry mouth and bad breath can suck on sugar-free candy or chew sugar-free gum, especially those containing xylitol. Other ways to increase saliva production include sucking on crushed ice or ice cubes for 20 seconds or more if you are not already cold.
Drinking water helps to keep the mouth and throat moist and thins mucus. People with dry mouth should drink plenty of water every day, especially after each meal. In addition to water, drinking more soup, broth, bone broth, fruit juice, and prioritizing soft, cool foods also provides water for the body.
Water provides moisture, avoiding dry mouth. Photo: Freepik
Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash and see your dentist regularly to catch cavities and damage early, which can increase your risk of dry mouth. Avoid mouthwashes that contain high levels of alcohol, which can dry out your mouth even more. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth and gums regularly.
Breathe through your nose instead of your mouth, except during strenuous exercise or nasal congestion. Mouth breathing increases the risk of dry mouth and bad breath. Using a humidifier in your room at night can improve the air quality in your bedroom.
Avoid salty, dry foods such as crackers, toast, cookies, dry bread, dried fish, dried fruit, and high-sugar drinks. Limit acidic foods such as lemons, oranges, and vinegar.
Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, soda, drinks containing chocolate, and wine because they have a diuretic effect and can easily cause dehydration.
Smoking is bad for your oral health and causes bad breath. If you have dry mouth and continue smoking, the condition will get worse.
Anh Chi (According to WebMD )
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