Dental Concerns For Patients With Dry Mouth

At Forest Lane Dental, we encourage our patients to ask questions about their dental health and concerns.  One question that we receive from time to time has to do with dry mouth.  This annoying condition can be uncomfortable, but can also increase your risk for certain dental problems.  Patients with dry mouth experience a reduction in the flow of saliva in the oral cavity, or even a thickening of saliva, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. There are options for managing dry mouth which we will explore today.

What Causes Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth can be caused by numerous factors or sometimes just increased age.  The most common causes of dry mouth are certain medical conditions such as diabetes, mouth breathing, sleep apnea and even rheumatoid arthritis. Autoimmune disorders such as Sjogren's Syndrome and lupus can cause dry mouth. Treatments such as radiation therapy can cause a reduction in saliva in the oral cavity.  Certain medications can inhibit saliva production leading to dry mouth as well.

Complications From Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is more than an annoying condition for people who suffer with it.  Your saliva acts as a natural cleanser for your mouth.  Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria, inhibiting tooth decay.  When saliva production is decreased, the risk of developing cavities and gum disease increases.  In addition, reduced saliva can increase the risk of developing an oral candida infection (yeast infection).  Patients with dry mouth should see their dentist regularly to examine the teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay or gum disease, since the risk of both is increased for them.

Treatment of Dry Mouth

There are many ways to help reduce the symptoms of dry mouth.  Chewing sugarless gum can help stimulate saliva production.  Avoiding chemicals such as caffeine, tobacco and mouthwash containing alcohol can help alleviate symptoms.  Keeping well-hydrated can also help alleviate symptoms of dry mouth.  Sip water throughout the day and use a humidifier at night to keep your air passages moist.  Avoid mouth-breathing.  Over the counter products, such as Biotene, can also help.  Look for a product that is designed to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.  These products are available in many preparations including mouth rinse, oral spray, gum and toothpaste.

For more information about the causes and treatment of dry mouth, contact the Dallas dental office of Dr. Jack E. Burroughs.

Affordable Dental Care Special Offers at Forest Lane Dental

April showers bring May flowers, but at Forest Lane Dental, May also means special offers for dental savings!  We know that the cost of dental work can be burdensome on your budget.  If you have been putting off needed dental work, now is a great time to schedule an appointment at Forest Lane Dental, the Dallas dental practice of Dr. Jack E. Burroughs.  Whether you need dental crowns or just an exam, we have all the bases covered to help you get the treatment you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.

New Dental Patient Special Offer

New dental patients at Forest Lane Dental can receive their dental examination and consultation with Dr. Burroughs along with the necessary x-ray films for just $49.  This represents a savings of over $100, and is available to all new patients.  To take advantage of this special offer, just call to schedule your appointment and mention this special.  Be aware that this reduced fee is not available with any other offer, discount or insurance coverage and represents a courtesy discount for payments made by cash or credit card.

A Royal Deal:  Affordable Dental Crowns

A tooth that has been damaged by decay or fracture can often be restored in structure and strength with a dental crown.  Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are strong, durable and long-lasting. For simple, uncomplicated treatment with a dental crown, a special discount is being offered for cash or credit payments.  A dental crown is now just $599 for a limited time when you mention this special offer.  Dental crowns can cost anywhere from $899-$1500, depending on the type of crown being made.  Please be advised that a porcelain to metal crown is not ideal in every case, and some teeth require special treatment such as build-up or root canal treatment before a crown can be made.  If this is the case for you, Dr. Burroughs will explain what is needed and describe any additional cost which may be involved before proceeding with treatment.

FREE Invisalign Consultation

You have heard of straightening your teeth without braces using Invisalign Clear Aligners, but how do you know if the treatment is right for you?  Come in and experience a complimentary consultation for Invisalign treatment to find out if you are a candidate for this exceptional treatment.  Crooked, crowded teeth place you at increased risk for tooth decay and gum disease- it's not just about appearances!  Dr. Burroughs can help you understand the problems associated with misaligned teeth, and explain whether straightening your teeth with Invisalign can help you. 

Save On Dental Expenses

Whatever your dental condition or level of dental health, we are here to help you achieve a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.  As a service to our patients, we are a provider for most PPO dental insurance plans, and can help you make the most of your dental insurance coverage.  For patients without insurance, you can save on the cost of treatment by using one of our special offers, and even choose an affordable payment plan using Care Credit to help you budget for needed dental work.  Give us a call today to schedule an appointment, or send us an email to request more information.