Maintaining good health and fitness can be pretty challenging when you are in your 60s. Some individuals may find themselves riddled with the problem of dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. This common condition can lead to an uncomfortable feeling in the mouth, changes in speech, difficulty swallowing, and oral sores. If you wear dentures, you may find that the dentures may become loose. You can overcome dry mouth by knowing what causes it, and following the tips that we have listed here for you.
Drink Enough Water
Drinking enough water is important in maintaining overall health. Drinking water is one of the easiest ways to combat dry mouth and keep your mouth and body hydrated. As a general rule, ensure that you drink at least eight glasses of water each day, increasing your water intake where necessary based on your physical activities. You would need to drink more water if you spend more time in the sun or if you have been exercising. If drinking water is not something you enjoy, inject some natural flavors into your water by adding some berries, lemon juice, or mint.
Saliva Substitutes May Help
If drinking water does not seem to alleviate the problem, you may want to try using saliva substitutes which come in the form of lozenges, gels, and sprays. Discuss with your healthcare provider regarding saliva substitutes and if they can be an option for you in eradicating dry mouth.
Talk to Your Doctor About Your Medications
Many medications can cause dry mouth. If you are taking any medication, including antihistamines, talk to your doctor about whether your dry mouth could be a side effect of your medication. Discuss alternative medications if possible, and talk to your doctor about any other forms of discomfort your dry mouth is causing and how to treat it.
No Smoking
If you are a smoker, now would be the best time to stop. It is common knowledge that smoking increases the risk of getting cancer and heart disease, but many may not know that it can also lead to dry mouth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, avoiding tobacco products can help with dry mouth and improve oral health. Nicotine contains chemicals that can reduce the moisture in your mouth. By saying no to smoking, you are not only solving the problem of dry mouth but also improving your overall health and well-being.
Use a Humidifier
As the name suggests, a humidifier can help to make the air more humid by introducing much-needed moisture. Whether at home or in a retirement community, use a humidifier in your room when you sleep at night to help with dry mouth. This is especially helpful if you tend to snore or sleep with your mouth slightly open, which can dry out your mouth even more.
We hope the above tips can help you in identifying the causes of your dry mouth and taking the necessary steps in alleviating the problem. Consult your doctor to discuss the best actions you can take to help you maintain good oral and physical health.
