NORTH TEXAS PERIODONTICS & IMPLANTOLOGY, PLLC

Diagnostic technology and new surgical techniques have broadened dental horizons, but it is still the caring attitude and concern for our patients that is most important. While there have been significant advancements in periodontal therapy, there is no cure for gum disease. Even after successful, corrective therapy and surgical intervention, your gum disease can recur. For the majority of patients with periodontal disease (~90%), regular periodontal maintenance cleanings have proven to be effective in preventing recurrence of gum disease. This phase is an essential part of treatment. Often, this can be the most important part of your therapy.



OUR MISSION STATEMENT: Our hygiene mission at North Texas Periodontics & Implantology is to propel our patients toward optimum oral & systemic health utilizing the best techniques, technology, and education available to us.



Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Wet Your Whistle

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) is a condition in which you do not produce enough saliva (spit) to keep your mouth feeling wet. Dry Mouth treatment will depend on what is causing the problem. If you think you have dry mouth, you should see your dentist or physician. In the meantime, here are some things you may not know...

Why is Saliva So Important?
  • It helps digest food.
  • It protects teeth from decay.
  • It prevents infection by controlling bacteria
    and fungi in the mouth.
  • It makes it possible for you to chew and
    swallow.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

  • More than 400 medicines can cause the salivary glands to make less saliva. (For example: Medicines for high blood pressure and depression often cause dry mouth).
  • Some diseases affect the salivary glands. For example, Sjogren’s syndrome and diabetes can all cause dry mouth.
  • The salivary glands can be damaged of they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment.
  • Chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can make saliva thicker, causing the mouth
    to feel dry.

What Can Be Done?

  • See your dentist or physician. He/she might change your medications or adjust the dosage. There are also medicines available that help the salivary glands work better as well as some artificial salivas to keep your mouth wet.
  • Sip water or sugarless drinks often
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine.
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate salivary flow (citrus, cinnamon, or mint are good choices).
  • Don't use tobacco or alcohol.
  • Switch to an alcohol-free over-the-counter mouthrinse.
  • Use a humidifier at night.
  • Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a check-up.