For older adults, dry mouth might be related to medications.

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For older adults dry mouth is a common problem. As we begin taking more medications as we age our likelihood of experiencing some degree of dry mouth increases. Medications used to treat urinary incontinence, depression, insomnia, and anxiety, as well as diuretics used to treat high blood pressure are all linked to dry mouth symptoms.

In fact, studies have shown that medications used to treat urinary incontinence were nearly six times more likely to cause dry mouth than a placebo.

This is problematic as dry mouth means you don’t have enough saliva (spit) in your mouth to keep it moist. A dry mouth leads to bacteria growth and a much higher risk of decay and oral infections.

It’s important to inform your dentist of any new medications you are taking so that we can monitor their affect on your oral health. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth it is important to mention it at your next regularly scheduled cleaning appointment.

Call us to set up your next cleaning appointment! (604) 936-1263

 

Bad Breath: Why you have it and how we can help you.

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When you chow down on your favourite foods, you’re also treating the bacteria in your mouth to a great meal. When they snack on the food left behind after your last meal they release foul-smelling odors as a by-product, causing bad breath.

Cleaning your teeth after every meal greatly reduces smells left behind. This includes brushing, flossing, and using a mouth wash, such as Lysterine.

Certain foods and beverages can also increase the likelihood of bad breath. Things like garlic, onions, coffee, alcohol, and sugary foods and drinks cultivate bad breath. Instead, choose foods high in water content such as carrots, celery, and apples which work like a “natural tooth brush” and scrub plaque bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth. Drinking water regularly also helps by washing away food debris and increasing saliva flow in your mouth.

Morning breath is a problem we all face. During the day our saliva works to wash away food debris and keep bacteria in check, however, at night our saliva production goes down – causing our mouths to become dry and creating the perfect breeding ground for odor.

The best way to keep your morning breath in check is to follow a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing and flossing before bed and when you wake in the morning are great preventative measures, but also using a tongue scraper and keeping a glass of water at your bedside to keep your mouth moisturized through the night.

Bad breath is manageable but if the severity doesn’t lessen after taking these preventative steps it may be a sign of a larger problem. Gum disease, diabetes, sinus problems, gastric reflux, and liver or kidney disease can all present bad breath symptoms.

Dr. Shahriary and staff are here to help you with all of your oral concerns. If you’re concerned about your bad breath, come see us for your personalized recommendations!