A healthy mouth needs saliva to stay comfortable and protect your teeth. Saliva helps wash away food particles, neutralize acids, and moisten your mouth. When your body doesn't produce enough saliva, it leads to a condition known as dry mouth, or xerostomia. We provide personalized care and solutions to manage dry mouth and protect your long-term oral health.
Dry mouth in Bellevue occurs when the salivary glands don't produce enough saliva. While it may seem inconvenient, untreated dry mouth can increase your risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. It can also make eating, speaking, and even sleeping more difficult.
Dry mouth can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Certain prescriptions for blood pressure, allergies, depression, and pain often reduce saliva flow.
Diabetes, Sjögren's syndrome, and autoimmune disorders are linked to xerostomia.
Radiation therapy for the head and neck can damage salivary glands.
Smoking, dehydration, and excessive caffeine or alcohol intake may contribute.
Understanding the root cause is the first step in finding the proper treatment.
If you're experiencing dry mouth, you may notice:
Even mild cases can significantly impact daily comfort and oral health.
Saliva is your mouth's natural defense system. Without enough, bacteria thrive, acids linger, and enamel wears down faster. People with untreated dry mouth near you often experience:
More frequent cavities
Gum irritation and bleeding
Higher risk of oral infections
Trouble wearing dentures comfortably
By treating dry mouth early, we can protect your smile and quality of life.
Along with in-office care, we'll provide at-home strategies to make daily life easier, from adjusting diet choices to using sugar-free gums or rinses that encourage saliva production. Regular checkups also allow us to monitor your oral health closely and address issues before they become more serious.
If dry mouth interferes with your comfort, health, or confidence, you don't have to live with it. Our Bellevue dental team is here to help identify the cause and create a personalized plan to bring you relief.
