While poor dental health and oral hygiene are the most common causes of halitosis, many conditions can contribute to the condition, or even make it worse. One of these is the lack of saliva.
Saliva and Oral Health
Saliva moistens the teeth and gums and removes odiferous dead cells. Saliva also neutralizes the ever-present acids on the tongue, gums, and cheeks and the minerals in saliva help to maintain enamel strength. Immunoproteins in saliva suppress the overgrowth of microbes in the mouth, thereby preserving the gums from gingivitis. Saliva also functions as a disinfectant by cleansing the mouth of leftover food, bacteria, and fungi. This safeguards against dental caries and infections.
Many men and women are plagued with dry mouth occasionally; perhaps when they are feeling anxiety or stress. Limiting caffeine, chewing sugar-free gum, using over-the-counter saliva substitutes, and using a humidifier can add moisture to the mouth.
If you have infrequent periods of dry mouth, there is probably nothing to worry about. Constant dry mouth, however, can lead to additional physical and dental health problems.
At the Dental Design Center in White Plains we treat a wide range of dental health issues, and provide general and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today.
Contact The Dental Design Center – Ira J. Handschuh, D.D.S.:
914-683-5898
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
280 Dobbs Ferry Rd Ste 104
White Plains, New York
10607
