Benefits of In-Office Teeth Whitening vs At-Home Whitening

If you’ve been staring in the mirror looking at healthy but discolored or stained teeth, then we can provide an easy and highly effective solution.

Professional teeth whitening, also known as bleaching, gives patients faster and more long-lasting results. Our dental professionals also customize the bleaching solution and treatment time to meet your specific needs and goals.

For most patients, it’s a simple matter of choosing between in-office teeth whitening and at-home whitening treatments. To help make the decision, take a look at the benefits of each.

Benefits of In-Office Teeth Whitening

1. Faster results: In-office teeth whitening is usually faster and more effective than at-home teeth whitening. The procedure can usually produce noticeable results in just one visit, which can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
2. Customization: During an in-office teeth whitening treatment, the dental professional can customize the bleaching solution and treatment time to meet your specific needs and goals.
3. Professional supervision: In-office teeth whitening is performed by a trained dental professional who can closely monitor the procedure and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible results.
4. Immediate results: You will see immediate results after an in-office teeth whitening treatment.
5. Safe and effective: In-office teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to brighten your smile. The dental professional will take steps to protect your gums and other soft tissues during the procedure.
6. Long-lasting results: The results of in-office teeth whitening can last for several months to a year, depending on your oral hygiene habits and other factors.

Overall, in-office teeth whitening is a convenient and effective way to achieve a brighter, more youthful smile.

Benefits of At-Home Whitening

1. Convenience: At-home teeth whitening allows you to whiten your teeth on your own time and in the comfort of your own home.
2. Affordability: At-home teeth whitening is generally more affordable than in-office teeth whitening.
3. Customization: Some at-home teeth whitening kits come with customizable trays that can be shaped to fit your teeth perfectly, allowing for more precise and effective treatment.
4. Gentle on teeth and gums: At-home teeth whitening products usually contain weaker bleaching agents, which can be gentler on teeth and gums, particularly for those with sensitive teeth or gums.
5. Easy to maintain: At-home teeth whitening kits provide instructions for maintaining your results, and you can touch up your smile as needed with maintenance treatments.

In-Office Teeth Whitening vs At-Home Whitening

There are pros and cons to both in-office teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening.

In-office teeth whitening, also known as professional teeth whitening, is usually faster and more effective than at-home teeth whitening. The procedure is performed by a dentist or dental hygienist and involves using a stronger bleaching agent and a specialized light or laser to accelerate the whitening process. In-office teeth whitening can usually produce noticeable results in just one visit, which can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

At-home teeth whitening, on the other hand, is a slower process and typically involves the use of a weaker bleaching agent. At-home kits come in the form of gels, strips, or trays that are applied to the teeth for a prescribed amount of time each day. The length of treatment varies, but it is usually recommended to use at-home teeth whitening products for at least two weeks to see significant results.

In-Office Teeth Whitening in Farmington, CT

Overall, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you want faster and more dramatic results, in-office teeth whitening may be the way to go.

Professional teeth whitening is long-lasting, but you can help extend the time between appointments by brushing and flossing regularly, rinsing your mouth after consuming any stain-causing foods or beverages, and having a professional cleaning twice per year.

You can also use an at-home whitening kit when your teeth first start to appear duller but keep in mind that it is not nearly as powerful as professional whitening.

To learn more about our teeth whitening process, contact us today at 860-677-8666 to schedule an appointment. 

When you need to restore decayed or damaged teeth, crowns are one of the most common treatments. Dental crowns, also called caps or dental caps, are typically used to restore damaged or decayed teeth or to protect weak or brittle teeth from further damage. Learn more about dental crowns, their use, how long they last, and more. 

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a type of restoration that protects and strengthens tooth structure by covering it using a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to fill in spaces lost due to decay or injury. It’s made of porcelain (a ceramic material) or metal alloys like gold or silver and can be either fixed or removable depending on the severity of damage incurred by your tooth. Crowns are most commonly used to restore teeth with large fillings or where multiple teeth need to be replaced. 

What Are Dental Crowns Used For?

While dental crowns may be used for one or more purposes, their primary purpose is to restore a tooth that has been chipped, fractured, or worn down so that it can once again function as intended. They are also often used to cover a tooth that has had root canal therapy to protect the tooth from further damage. In some cases, dental crowns are used to attach bridges and other types of restorations onto existing teeth.

How Are Dental Implants Placed? 

The doctor first prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to the size of the crown. The dentist then takes an impression of your teeth and sends it to a lab that makes dental crowns. From here, the lab molds your tooth with acrylic, porcelain, or metal, depending on what is needed. The dentist will then place a temporary filling material over the exposed area, which can take up to three weeks before it hardens enough for a permanent restoration.

What Are the Risks of Dental Crowns?

A common concern is that there may be sensitivity around the tooth after a new dental crown is placed. You should discuss this issue with your dentist if you experience any discomfort before, during, or after the placement of your new crown. A temporary remedy for any sensitivity may involve applying an ice pack over it for 20 minutes every few hours.

Caring for a Dental Crown

Treatment and upkeep for a dental crown typically consists of:

• Brushing and flossing teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
• Rinsing the mouth out after eating or drinking.
• Having regular dental checkups to see if the crown needs to be replaced.
• Taking prescribed medications as directed by your dentist.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

The length of time that a dental crown lasts varies from person to person and depends on their oral habits as well as the type of crown used. In general, dental crowns usually last between 10 and 15 years. 

Questions About Dental Crowns?

Dental Associates, LLP provides a range of general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry procedures to patients throughout Farmington, CT, and the surrounding areas. If you have questions about a dental crown or if you would like to book an appointment, contact us at 860-677-8666.

More than 12 million people in the U.S. have aligned their smiles and corrected bite issues using Invisalign instead of traditional bracket and wire braces. Employing innovative alignment technology and a series of alignment trays, Invisalign can correct problems, including overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. Invisalign can also straighten and align teeth that are crowded, crooked, slanted, and gapped. Read on for everything to know about how Invisalign works.

Invisalign Treatment: What to Expect

If you’re ready to correct your smile, scheduling a consultation with an experienced Invisalign provider is the first step. During your consultation, your dentist will perform a visual examination of your mouth. You will have x-rays and painless digital 3D scans of your mouth.  The examination and x-rays will be used to rule out any underlying conditions, including gum disease, that could potentially delay treatment. If your dentist determines you are a good candidate for Invisalign, they will use the 3D scans of your mouth and teeth to design your treatment plan.

Before you leave the office, you’ll also be able to view a digital image of what your smile will look like once you complete treatment. If you decide to proceed with Invisalign, your dentist will design your treatment plan and send it along with your images to the lab to create your Invisalign trays.

Your journey towards a straighter, healthier smile will begin with the first set of alignment trays.

Made of clear, smooth, BPA-free plastic, the alignment trays fit snugly on your teeth. Each set of trays is designed to be slightly more aligned than your teeth. As you wear the trays, your teeth gradually begin shifting to line up with the tray. You’ll wear each set of trays for 2-3 weeks before graduating to the next set of trays in your series.

Some patients may need to have Invisalign attachments, known as buttons, bonded to the surface of some of the teeth to correct bite issues or for teeth that need a little extra pressure to move. Buttons are tooth-colored resin bonded to the teeth. 

Other patients may need to use elastics during treatment. Elastics are generally only required to correct a moderate bite problem. Some patients may also need Invisalign trays with mandibular advancement (wings) to help shift the jaw into alignment. 

It is crucial that you wear your Invisalign trays for 20-22 hours each day. They should only be removed when eating or drinking a beverage other than water. You may also remove the trays to replace them with a mouthguard if you engage in sports.  

You need to practice good hygiene habits with your trays. They should be brushed twice a day when you brush your teeth. This will keep them clean and prevent debris or bacteria from accumulating. 

Once you’ve completed treatment with Invisalign, you’ll initially need to wear a retainer for most hours of the day. Over time, your dentist will let you know when you can transition to wearing it less or only wearing it at night.

Schedule an Invisalign Consultation in Farmington, CT Today

If you’d like to learn more about Invisalign, contact us at  860-677-8666. Our dentists at Dental Associates are highly experienced with Invisalign treatment. Recognized as “Best Dentists” by Hartford Magazine, our team is eager to help you achieve a smile you can’t wait to flash at others. For your convenience, we begin seeing patients at 7:15 am Monday – Friday. We also offer Saturday appointments. 

Partial dentures make it possible to replace one or multiple missing teeth. With every missing tooth, basic things such as eating and speaking can become more challenging. And, an open-lipped smile often becomes forever lost. 

There are many different types of partial dentures – also referred to as partials – to choose from, which makes it easy to find an option that will work for your needs – as long as you know about them. Let’s take a look at the 3 types of partial dentures to consider. 

1. Cast Metal Partial Dentures

As their name suggests, cast metal partial dentures have a metal frame and are a strong, durable option. They are, in fact, one of the most popular options. This is likely due to their ability to last for many years and still maintain their realistic, aesthetic appearance. 

Some cast metal partial dentures have a metal clasp that clamps to existing, natural teeth. You don’t often see this unless you are smiling big or open your mouth wide. However, there are precision attachments that are preferred because the metal is covered up with the pink acrylic so they look more real. 

1. Acrylic Flipper Partial Dentures

The least expensive partial dentures on the market are the acrylic flipper. And, they just happen to be the least preferred, as well. Perhaps the reason they seem to get the boot is that they are thick and bulky. They are likely designed this way due to the lack of metal involved in their design, but it can be frustrating for those wearing them. The flipper in the name refers metal clasp that attaches to your teeth – and is visible when you smile or eat.

Due to their design, many people use acrylic flipper partial dentures as a temporary solution. 

1. Flexible Partial Dentures

Flexible partial dentures are designed with a material called Valplast. The material can be compared to soft nylon that is molded to fit the mouth, making them rather comfortable. And, they attach to the teeth with pink clasps so that they look like real gums. 

These partials do not contain any metal and are lightweight. They are also pink and aesthetically preferred, too. One of the downfalls of flexible partials is that the Valplast material can stain easily. 

This option may be used as a temporary or long-term solution. 

Bonus Partials: Implant Supported Dentures

Depending on where you are missing teeth, dental implant-supported bridges and dentures are the preferred, gold standard option for tooth replacement. It only takes 4 to 6 dental implants to fix an entire arch, less for a bridge. There are no metal clasps or uncomfortable, thick acrylic. Instead, you have implants that look and function just like real teeth. 

You will not want to select your partials until talking to your dentist about implant-supported dentures first. 

Partial Dentures in Farmington, CT

If you are interested in learning about your choices for partial dentures – and how they can benefit your oral health – then the highly-skilled team at Dental Associates, LLP is here for you. We offer different options so that you can find exactly what you are looking for. 

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 860-677-8666. Or, request an appointment online.

Do you have bad breath? People are often unaware that their breath has an unpleasant odor unless someone is bold enough to tell them. But it can affect relationships, job interviews, and many other social situations. 

Bad breath is not only a social problem, but it may indicate a dental health concern. Here are the top 10 causes of bad breath and what you can do to prevent it. 

1. Lack of proper oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day is recommended by most dentists. If you fail to brush your teeth, food residue and plaque build up and feed the bacteria in your mouth that cause bad breath. Higher populations of bacteria can cause chronic bad breath. 
2. Eating certain foods. Foods like garlic and onions are known to cause bad breath, but the effects are only temporary. If you eat these foods frequently, you may need to brush more often to fight the odors they leave in your mouth.
3. Not going to the dentist regularly. Even if you brush your teeth at home, it is still important to go to the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams. The dentist can remove plaque and tartar that you may have missed with your toothbrush, as well as identify any potential oral health issues that could be causing bad breath. 
4. Forgetting to floss. Brushing your teeth goes a long way, but flossing is also important. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between the teeth where bacteria is more likely to collect. If you brush frequently and still suffer from bad breath, consider adding flossing to your daily routine. 
5. Dry mouth. Some people suffer from dry mouth, a condition that occurs when the salivary glands don’t create enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Dry mouth can cause bacteria to overpopulate and create an odor. If you suffer from dry mouth, sip water more often or speak to your dentist about treatment.  
6. Certain medications. There are certain medications that can cause dry mouth. Talk to your dentist and your doctor about the medications you are taking to find out if there are any alternatives or if adding a medication to boost your salivary glands would help. 
7. Gum disease. When plaque forms on the teeth and remains for an extended period of time, the bacteria contained in plaque can infect the gum tissue, causing a variety of symptoms that often includes bad breath. Regular dental cleanings and exams can prevent gum disease and the bad breath that accompanies it. 
8. Bacteria on the tongue. The tongue is an often neglected area of the mouth. The grooves and bumps on your tongue are places where bacteria can collect and cause bad breath. Brushing your tongue when you brush your teeth can help, or using a tongue scraper, a tool that removes bacteria from your tongue. 
9. Improper care of dentures or prosthetics. If you have dentures, a bridge, or any other artificial dental appliance it is necessary to clean them properly. Removable dentures need to be brushed and soaked while fixed prosthetics may require special tools to clean them. Your dentist can provide you with cleaning instructions for prosthetics. 
10. Use of tobacco products. Smoking and oral tobacco products can cause bad breath. It is best to avoid tobacco use completely, but good oral hygiene can help reduce the effects. 

Dental Associates of Farmington, CT Can Treat the Causes of Bad Breath 

If you suffer from bad breath, the Dental Associates of Farmington, Connecticut can help. We can identify the source of your bad breath and provide treatment when necessary. Our dentists can also offer tips to prevent bad breath from returning after treatment. Staying on schedule with regular dental appointments every 6 months is your best defense against bad breath. 

Call 860-677-8666  today to schedule an appointment.

Congratulations! You’re expecting a baby and this is a time full of joy, anticipation, changes…and questions. Like most moms-to-be, you want to make all the best decisions for your health and the health of your baby. But you may be wondering if it’s ok to get dental work done, or even safe to go to the dentist, during pregnancy. The good news is, you don’t have to stop your healthy oral hygiene habits while you’re expecting. In fact, it’s even more important to continue them throughout your pregnancy.

Good Oral Health Supports Good Overall Health

Pregnancy can render expecting moms more susceptible to oral health issues such as tooth decay from changes in dietary habits, swelling or inflammation of the gums due to increased blood flow from rising hormones, and damage to tooth enamel from the effects of morning sickness. To avoid cavities and oral infections such as gum disease while you’re pregnant, it’s important to keep your regular preventative care check-ups with your dentist, and of course remain diligent about brushing and flossing at home.

Getting your teeth cleaned and having a thorough exam every six months, just as you did before you were expecting a baby, will help to ensure your overall good health. A healthy mouth helps prevent the spread of germs and illness, not to mention allowing you to eat the healthy, nourishing foods your growing baby needs.

Safe and Sound

Fortunately, getting cavities filled, teeth cleanings and dental exams present no risk to expecting moms and their babies. However, it is important to let your dentist know right away that you are pregnant as it may be advisable or simply preferable to postpone certain treatments or procedures, such as having x-rays taken or non-emergency, elective or cosmetic dental work.

Other dental work considerations are based on comfort. The second trimester is often a good time for dental appointments because the morning sickness phase is typically over and lying on your back in the dental chair is still tolerable.

Make your visits to the dentist even more comfortable during your pregnancy by bringing a pillow to cushion your time in the chair, enjoying some soothing music on your headphones to keep you relaxed and being mindful not to cross your legs or feet to ensure proper blood flow and circulation during your treatment.

Healthy Mom, Healthy Baby: Schedule Your Next Appointment

At Dental Associates, we’re here to provide all the support we can during this special time in your life. Our team of experts puts patient care and comfort as a top priority, and we want to ensure that you feel relaxed and at ease in our beautiful, state-of-the-art facility – before, during and after your pregnancy. Stay on schedule with your dental care throughout your pregnancy and make your next appointment with us today. Contact us at 860-677-8666 or request an appointment.

Dental care is an important part of your overall health. Unfortunately, keeping up with dental work – and the expense of it – can be a lot to handle. This is amplified if you have an entire family who needs dental care. 

Making the decision to look into dental insurance can be very beneficial now – and in the future. Especially since it will have a positive impact on your oral health. But, with so many different policies available, how do you know what to look for? How do you choose the best dental insurance for your family? 

Types of Dental Insurance Policies

All dental insurance policies are not created equal. They are typically found in 3 categories: indemnity, PPO, and HMO. 

PPO: PPO’s – Preferred Provider Organization – is a dental insurance policy that is found most commonly in the dental plan market. It uses a group of dentists who agree to a fee structure with the insurance provider. This means they agree to pay a percentage of the procedures. So while you can choose any dentist you wish, if they have higher rates,  the portion you will be responsible for is going to be higher. 

HMO: HMO’s – Health Maintenance Organization – is the most cost-effective plan available, but it is also the most restrictive. There are dentists within the HMO that you can choose from. They have agreed to do specific work for a certain amount. In order to get the benefits of this plan, you have to use their network dentists.  

Indemnity: Indemnity dental plans are considered to be the most costly. They pay a certain amount for each procedure and you are required to pay the remainder. What makes this policy the least effective option for those looking for coverage is that the patient is usually responsible for all the costs upfront. Then, a claim can be filed and the amount the insurance company will pay will be sent to the patient. This could take several weeks. 

Tips For Choosing a Dental Plan

Although you know that there are different types of dental insurance available, if you were to pull up a list of their benefits, it may make your head spin. And that even goes for a handful of the same types of policies. There are so many differences and options and deductibles and caps that it makes it really hard to make a decision. 

Hopefully, these tips will help. 

Tip 1. Assess Your Family’s Needs

While you cannot predict what the future holds for the teeth of anyone in the family, you can consider things such as the age of your kids, any orthodontic work that may be needed, a history of cavities or periodontal disease, etc. 

Gathering an idea of what you may need your insurance to cover can help you narrow down the best policies.

Tip 2. Join a Group Policy

If you have the ability to join a group dental policy at your work, you would be wise to do so. Sometimes these group policies offer greater benefits at a more affordable rate than you will find on your own. 

Tip 3. Talk to Your Dental Team

Who better to ask about the best dental insurance policies than the people who work with them every day? Talk to the staff at your dentist’s office and find out what policies offer the most coverage, the best savings, and so forth. They may even be able to compare it to the dental treatment plans you and your family have on file. 

Dental Associates for All Your Dental Needs

We understand that, although dental work can be necessary for good oral care, it can also be expensive. Contact Dental Associates to discuss payment options and insurance plans. Our knowledgeable staff can help answer any questions you may have. 

Call our office today at 860-677-8666 . Or request an appointment online. 

Teeth whitening is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic dentistry treatments. By removing years of stains to reveal a brighter, whiter smile, teeth whitening can substantially lighten your teeth and make you proud to show off your grin. But are all teeth whitening options equally effective? Not necessarily. Read on to learn about three options for whitening your teeth.

Teeth Whitening at Your Dentist’s Office

In-office teeth whitening can be completed in a single visit lasting about an hour. This makes it the fastest way to get the results of your efforts. During a teeth whitening appointment at your dentist, your gums will first be protected with a shield or gel.

Next, the whitening agent will be applied to your teeth. A special light will then be used to maximize the bleaching power contained in the whitening agent. Once you’ve completed treatment, you’ll leave the office with a brighter, whiter smile.  

Benefits of in-office teeth whitening provided by your dentist include a stronger whitening agent, and immediate results, after a single visit.  You’ll be in and out with whiter teeth after one appointment. Professional teeth whitening also lasts a long time. 

Professional-Grade At-Home Whitening Kits

Dentists also offer professional-grade at-home whitening kits to eligible patients. You’ll need to have dental impressions taken so that a custom tray can be made for you. Each night you’ll put the whitening gel in the tray and wear them for as long as your dentist recommends.  You’ll need to wear the trays each night for several weeks. Your dentist will custom design your treatment plan based on your goals and likely outcomes.

The benefits of professional-grade at-home whitening kits include the freedom to whiten your teeth at home. At-home kits are also typically less expensive than in-office bleaching. 

Over-the-Counter Whitening Toothpaste, Rinses, Strips

You can also buy whitening toothpaste, whitening rinses, and whitening strips at the pharmacy or your grocery store. These contain less powerful whitening agents than either the in-office treatment or at-home kit you get from your dentist. Over-the-counter whitening treatments are not as effective as professional whitening, but if your teeth aren’t significantly discolored these may be all that you need. 

Benefits of over-the-counter pastes and strips include affordability, and no dental appointment required. 

Does Teeth Whitening Work for Everyone?

Professional teeth whitening works best for people with yellowed teeth, resulting from stain formation over time. Teeth that are gray or brown may not whiten.  In addition, tooth restorations such as crowns and fillings will not whiten. So if you have visible restorations, teeth whitening is not recommended as the natural teeth will whiten but your restorations will not.  

Likewise, individuals who have suffered tooth staining from dental trauma or medication are not good candidates for teeth whitening.  If you’re unsure whether whitening will work for you, talk with your dentist. 

Schedule an Appointment for Teeth Whitening 

If your smile has become less than sparkling over the years, contact Dental Associates in Farmington, CT today. Our dentists will be happy to discuss results you may get from either in-office whitening, or fit you for custom trays for at-home whitening.  Call 860-677-8666 or request an appointment online.

Oral health plays an integral role in overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to myriad problems including tooth decay, tooth loss, gum disease, and jaw bone loss. But poor oral health can also open the door to severe disease including heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. To maintain excellent oral health, you need to practice proper oral hygiene. Read on to learn how to take the best care of your teeth, mouth, and smile through brushing, flossing, and regular preventative dental cleanings and examinations.

Best Practices for Brushing Your Teeth

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day. You should choose a size and shape of a toothbrush that comfortably fits your mouth. Young children should use an ADA-approved children’s toothbrush. You should also use a toothpaste that contains at least 1,000 parts per million fluoride, and features the ADA stamp of approval. Adults who are looking for a whitening toothpaste should ask their dentist for a recommendation. If you prefer an electric toothbrush for yourself or your child, ask your dentist to recommend a specific type of brush. 

Hold your toothbrush at an approximately 45-degree angle to the gums then gently move your toothbrush back and forth. Be sure you reach the front surface of your teeth, the chewing surface of your teeth, and behind your teeth. You should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time.  Be sure to spit out any residual toothpaste and then rinse your toothbrush after each use.

Your toothbrush should be replaced at least every three to four months. Replace it sooner if the bristles start to wear out, or bend. When not in use, store your toothbrush upright so that it is not touching other family members’ toothbrushes. It is best to let it air dry, rather than putting it in an enclosed case. 

Although the ADA recommends brushing twice a day, brushing three times a day is unlikely to damage teeth. However, you do need to brush gently. Brushing too hard can irritate your gums, and forceful frequent brushing can contribute to your enamel wearing away.  

How to Floss Like a Pro

Flossing should be a daily part of your oral health routine. If you’re using traditional dental floss, tear off a string of floss roughly 18” long.  Wind each end around the same finger on each hand. Grab the stretch of floss you’ll be using with your thumbs and forefingers then insert between each tooth. Avoid snapping the floss against your gums. 

Guide the floss into the space between your gum and tooth and hold it against the tooth. Then gently rub it up and away from the gum line.  Make sure you floss between every tooth (including the hard to reach back molars). Throw the floss away when you are finished. You should never reuse dental floss. 

If you have a dental bridge, ask your dentist which tools you should use to floss. They may recommend a dental pick, or WaterPik to best clean in and around your bridge. 

See Your Dentist Twice a Year 

You should see your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and dental exam. Regular dental visits help identify any potential minor problems before they become serious problems. Professional cleanings also ensure that any places that you miss during your daily routine are cleaned. Plus, your dentist or hygienist will use special tools to scrape away plaque or tartar that can lead to decay or infection. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment at your appointment. Fluoride treatments can help to prevent cavities and tooth decay. 

Schedule a Dental Cleaning and Exam in Farmington

To schedule a dental cleaning and examination in Farmington, contact Dental Associates, LLP  today by calling 860-677-8666. For your convenience you may also request an appointment online. 

Do you experience dry mouth? Dry mouth is a condition affecting the salivary glands that causes a lack of saliva. The scientific name is xerostomia, and it affects somewhere between 10% and 20% of the population. There are many causes, effects, and treatment options for those who suffer from dry mouth. Here’s what you need to know.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can cause a variety of symptoms besides the obvious dryness, such as: 

• Extreme thirst. Dry mouth can make you feel thirsty a lot of the time. 
• Sore throat. The lack of saliva will also make your throat dry and potentially sore. 
• Cracked lips. Your lips may also suffer from dryness due to lack of saliva. 
• Mouth sores. Sores may develop due to irritation from lack of saliva. 
• Sticky feeling in the mouth. Your mouth may feel sticky, like your tongue is sticking to the roof of your mouth. 
• Burning sensation in the mouth. The dryness can cause irritation and inflammation, which can feel like burning. 
• Red, raw tongue. When your tongue is dry it may appear red and feel sore from irritation and inflammation. 
• Lack of taste. If your tongue is irritated, you may notice that you can’t taste things as well as you could before. 
• Trouble chewing and swallowing. Saliva is a key part of your digestion. Food begins to digest in your mouth when it is mixed with saliva. A dry mouth can make it difficult to chew and swallow food. 
• Bad breath. Lack of saliva results in an increase of bacteria in your mouth, which can result in bad breath. 

Causes of Dry Mouth

There are a few different potential causes of dry mouth: 

• Medications. Some medications cause dry mouth as a side effect. There are a wide variety of medications that can lead to dry mouth. Read the information provided with your prescription to determine if dry mouth is one of the side effects of the medication you are taking. You can also ask your doctor or pharmacist. 
• Health conditions. There are some health conditions that can cause dry mouth, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, anemia, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and mumps.
• Medical treatments. Certain aggressive medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, which are common cancer treatments, can cause dry mouth. 
• Dehydration. You may not be drinking enough water throughout the day, resulting in dehydration. It is recommended that you drink half of your body weight in ounces of water every day. For someone weighing 150 pounds, that means drinking at least 75 ounces of water each day. 
• Lifestyle. Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to dry mouth. 

If you have the symptoms of dry mouth and none of the above seem to be the cause, talk to your doctor or your dentist. 

Dry Mouth Can Affect Your Dental Health

Lack of saliva in your mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Saliva is an important element in controlling the bacteria population in your mouth. When bacteria increase, the risk of gum disease (a bacterial infection of the gum tissue) increases as well as the risk of tooth decay (when bacteria eat away at the enamel of your teeth, causing cavities). This is why dry mouth should be treated. 

Treatments for Dry Mouth

There are some prescription medications as well as mouthwashes and toothpastes that can increase your saliva production. These are recommended when dry mouth cannot be controlled in other ways. 

Ways to Manage Dry Mouth

There are some things you can do to help reduce your dry mouth symptoms: 

• Drink plenty of water. 
• Breath through your nose instead of your mouth. 
• Suck on sugar free candy or chew sugar free gum to stimulate your salivary glands. 
• Use a humidifier to moisten the air in the room. 
• Avoid salty foods.
• Avoid smoking. 
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine. 
• Eat moist foods. 

Visit Dental Associates of Farmington, CT Regularly 

Dry mouth is not something to ignore. It can negatively impact your dental health in addition to making you uncomfortable. Dental Associates of Farmington, Connecticut can provide you with treatment options for dry mouth. We can also prevent dry mouth from causing dental issues when you see us twice a year for cleanings and exams. 

Call 860-677-8666 or contact us to request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with quality dental care.