We want patients at Ross Orthodontics to be as comfortable as possible when undergoing orthodontic treatment, which is why we’re interested in preventing dry mouth. Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth not only puts braces patients at greater risk for irritation, it also increases the risk of gingivitis. However, it may be treatable with some simple lifestyle changes.
Saliva isn’t just a lubricant; it’s also a part of the immune system. It washes away food debris, denying food to decay-causing bacteria, and it regulates the mouth’s pH level to make it inhospitable to fungi. But when saliva production is inhibited or can’t keep up with dry conditions, the mouth is likelier to develop infections, which could be particularly troublesome to people with mouth lesions.
In the short term, patients with braces can use dental wax to prevent mouth injuries, but dry mouth deserves attention. Alcohol, sugar, and caffeine are all contributors to it, so patients should avoid drinks such as soda. They may also want to try throat moisturizers or stimulating saliva production by sucking sugar-free hard candy. Some medications cause dry mouth as a side effect, particularly those for ADHD, so patients may need to consult with other doctors about changing them.
To learn more about Ross Orthodontics, visit Smiles by Ross. Offices are located in Forest Lake, Minnesota and Hudson, Wisconsin.
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