Why Is My Mouth Always Dry?

You drink some water feel better for a few minutes. Then your mouth is dry again. Annoying right? If this keeps happening there is usually a reason behind it than your mouth simply needing another glass of water.

What Causes a Constantly Dry Mouth?

The first thing to look at is how saliva you are actually making. Saliva keeps your mouth comfortable. Helps protect your teeth. When there isn’t enough your tongue can feel sticky your throat may feel dry and swallowing suddenly takes effort than it should.

Dehydration is a cause especially after exercise or a long day when you have barely stopped for water.. It isn’t the only one. Sleeping with your mouth open can leave you waking up with that cotton-mouth feeling particularly if your nose is blocked.

Stress can play a part too. So can smoking.. Some medicines reduce saliva as a side effect, including certain medicines used for allergies, depression, blood pressure or pain.

Your Daily Habits Matter More Than You Think

Sometimes the cause is sitting in your routine. You have coffee thing forget to drink much water during work then wonder why your mouth feels like sandpaper by evening.

Could Dry Mouth Affect Your Teeth?

Yes. This is the part I would take seriously.

Saliva helps wash food and supports the natural protection around your teeth. With saliva plaque can build up more easily and your risk of tooth decay can rise. Your gums can also become irritated.

You might notice things such as:

• A feeling in your mouth that keeps coming back even after you have had water.

• Bad breath that seems harder to control because your mouth isn’t clearing itself well.

• Trouble eating foods with swallowing suddenly feeling like more work.

•. Cracked lips around the edges especially when the dryness has been hanging around for a while.

When Should You See a Dentist?

If your mouth is dry days and you can’t explain why book an appointment with your dentist or GP. Persistent dryness deserves a look particularly if you are also getting frequent tooth decay, mouth soreness or problems swallowing.

Your dentist can check your teeth and gums. Ask about your symptoms. They can also help spot whether your dry mouth is contributing to oral problems.

What Can You Do About It?

Keep water nearby. Take regular sips rather than waiting until you are desperately thirsty. Sugar-free chewing gum can also encourage saliva flow, which feels surprisingly effective when your mouth is dry.

Try breathing through your nose where possible especially while sleeping. If your nose is regularly blocked that is worth discussing with your GP than simply accepting that you will wake up thirsty every morning.

Is Your Dry Mouth Something to Ignore?

A dry mouth, after a workout or a night of sleep isn’t usually a big mystery.. If you are constantly reaching for water and your mouth still feels dry don’t just get used to it.

Your mouth is giving you a clue. Maybe it is your routine. Maybe it is a medicine. Maybe something else needs checking.