i can't take the dry mouth ! - Dental Health Message Board

sar_nicky · 04-29-2006, 06:05 PM

I have had a severely dry mouth for about 2 weeks. I've had a major change in sleep habits as I have been moved to 12 hour night shifts. I believe my diet is mostly the same, and I am on no medication. I bought some biotene toothpaste which is supposed to help. Is there anything else I can do to relieve this problem? Should I see a doctor? It's driving me crazy!

Sae · 04-29-2006, 08:27 PM

Yes, there are many products and if you type in "products for dry mouth" you will find many listed. Sometimes you need to ask the pharmacist to order them for you even though it is over the counter. Carry water with you and take small sips. You might have Sjogren's Syndrome or age sometimes has to do with it. Ask your dentist to help as with a dry mouth, your teeth will decay. You might want to ask your general doctor or especially a rheumatologist if you could possibly have Sjogren's. Suck on sugarfree lemon drops or chew sugar free gum.

JenniferE · 04-29-2006, 08:53 PM

Are you a mouth breather? Do you drink enough water throughout the day? Dehydration, stress and anxiety can all cause dry mouth as well side effects from some medications, medical treatment, and disease.

Along with sucking on sugar free lemon drops and/or chew sugar free gum, try using a room vaporizer when you sleep, drink plenty of water, and breathe through your nose as much as possible. Consult with your dentist. There are medications available if the dry mouth persists.

wintersun · 04-30-2006, 02:27 AM

Yes, have all your teeth pulled out, and I can guarantee you'll never have that problem again- HA!
No, seriouously, I had such BAD dry mouth-and that made my gums change, more prone to infection- la la la- BUT After I had them all out, I CANNOT stop from spitting, or swallowing constantly..
Yes I agree with the others about what they said--you are deheydrated from having to stay up all night- not normal..Your body MIGHT adjust, but not likely- it's just not normal...There is all kind of things in Walgreens- But what you need is simple- MORE WATER!!
I am on the night shift too, but not 3-11-DRINK MORE WATER!!
And KEEP drinking it till you DROWN!! Your body will eventually get used to it, and know how to utilize it..(pee should be LIGHT yellow) strive for THAT! TMI, huh?
Love you! Kiss!