A prominent dentist says the common symptom can indicate serious illness. Dr. Azad Eyrumlu says that different parts of our bodies are closely linked and could be signs that something else is wrong, even if we don’t know it.
Poor dental health can cause major problems elsewhere in the body, and a dry mouth can indicate that something is wrong elsewhere.
According to a renowned dentist, it’s a common symptom that should never be ignored.
While dry mouth is normally harmless – we don’t make as much saliva as we get older, and it can be caused by snoring, medicine, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol – the symptom can be a warning sign for serious conditions like diabetes, stroke, and even HIV.
Dr. Azad Eyrumlu of the top private dental practice Banning Dental Group says that our bodies are very complicated and that different parts are closely connected, even if we don’t always realize it.
“A dry mouth can be a sign something’s not right elsewhere,” according to the doctor, “This can manifest itself with symptoms such as a sticky feeling in the mouth, a dry or sore throat, difficulty chewing or swallowing or even bad breath.
“Certain health conditions such as a stroke, diabetes or Alzheimer’s disease can show themselves in this way, while these symptoms can also be an indicator of an autoimmune disorder such as HIV or Sjogren’s syndrome.
“When you visit a dentist, we don’t just look out for your oral health. We are trained in how to spot certain wider problems with your general health, too. It’s vital to keep a close eye on your own health and if you do notice persistent symptoms of a dry mouth then you must highlight this with your GP.”
Dry mouth may signal:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- HIV
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
Xerostomia occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is essential for good oral health because it neutralizes acids created by bacteria and washes away food particles.
It helps prevent tooth decay and contains key enzymes that facilitate digestion, ensuring that our bodies acquire the vitamins and nutrients they require.
Every six months, you should visit the dentist to ensure that your oral hygiene is in good form and to keep track of any potential problems.
Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash are all recommended by experts.
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