Frequent choking because of dry mouth. Can a dentist help?

It’s not that I don’t drink water. I drink 4 to 6 20 oz. glasses of water every day. I stay hydrated but my mouth is still really dry. I don’t understand it. I told my regular doctor about it and she said maybe it’s allergies. Really? Any way is this something that maybe I can see a dentist about?My mouth gets really dry even at night and I keep a glass of water next to my bed. Thanks. Elodee

Elodee – Dry mouth needs to be addressed, so see a dentist. A dry mouth can affect your ability to chew, speak, eat, and swallow.

When your mouth is dry, your chances of getting tooth decay or an infection in your mouth are increased. Saliva also assists in the digestion of food.

Trauma to the head or neck can cause damage to the nerves that signal the salivary glands. Radiation therapy can damage the salivary glands, and chemotherapy can cause dry mouth. There are diseases that can cause dry mouth including HIV/AIDS, Sjögren’s syndrome, and diabetes.

You can avoid things that decrease saliva in your mouth, including caffeinated drinks, tobacco, and alcohol. It may help use a humidifier at night while you sleep.

Your dentist will examine your mouth, perform any necessary tests, or refer you to a specialist for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.