Do you suffer with extreme dry mouth due to Sjogren's disease?
If you have managed to land on this website, chances are you have been diagnosed (or on the search for diagnosis) with Sjogren's. Today I have some helpful tips for battling dryness in the mouth due to Sjogren's, so stay tuned!
Sjogren's is a complex, systemic disease, which means is can attack any part of the body.
Sjogren's typically presents as damaging the moisture producing glands, which includes the salivary glands.
Dry mouth is one of the most common symptoms of Sjogren's; although it is not felt by every person with Sjogren's.
If you are one of the many Sjogren's dry mouth suffers, I want to tell you - I feel you!
Seriously, this is a horrible symptom.
It can impact every aspect of life from swallowing and eating, to talking and communicating.
At it's worst it can absolutely debilitate you.
I help to run a local support group for the Sjogren's Society of Canada. Every single person shows up with a large water bottle to our meetings. We know how hard it is to talk without moisture in the mouth, to lubricate the tongue and lips.
We all sip our water, and we talk about water, and we show off our favorite water bottles. It's almost comical. We could be ambassadors for water bottle companies! (Hello Congtigio!)
If you are new to Sjogren's you may be wondering Why is saliva so important?
Here are a few things you need to know about saliva and how it impacts your body:
Saliva helps protect against periodontal disease and decay.
How?
Well, your teeth are typically covered with a layer of saliva. That layer helps to fight against bacteria. Saliva itself has antimicrobial agents, which help kill the bacteria in the oral cavity. Saliva is basically a superhero, am I right?
Saliva also helps sweep away small bits of food that get stuck in your teeth.
When food get's stuck, it can start a domino effect of tooth decay.
Saliva also has minerals that help re-mineralize the enamel.
How amazing is that?
Well, I hope by now you can see just how important saliva is for your body.
You may be wondering, what do Sjogren's patients need to do to help keep saliva flowing in their mouth?
Managing dry mouth can be challenging, but with these seven tips, you can take proactive steps to alleviate discomfort and promote oral health:
1. Infuse Your Water with Fruit
Enhance your hydration routine by incorporating fruits like lemon, cucumbers, strawberries, or mint into your water.
Experiment with different combinations to find a refreshing blend that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also stimulates the saliva glands. The natural acidity in fruits helps kickstart the salivary flow, providing relief for dry mouth symptoms.
Consider creating fruit-infused ice cubes for an added burst of flavor. This not only keeps your water cool but also ensures a continuous release of refreshing taste as the ice melts.
2. Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly
Make it a habit to brush your teeth after every meal, and perhaps even after snacks, especially those high in sugar.
This routine is crucial for removing sugar and debris from your teeth, preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria.
Additionally, don't forget to floss regularly to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Invest in a high-quality toothbrush with soft bristles to protect your gums, and consider using fluoride toothpaste for added protection against cavities.
3. Explore X-Pur Products
Discover the benefits of X-Pur products, a pro-science brand dedicated to dry mouth solutions.
Not only are these products designed to provide relief, but the company also utilizes its profits for research initiatives.
Find X-Pur products at your local pharmacy or conveniently order them online.
Explore the various sugar free products, including mouthwash, toothpaste, and moisturizing oral gels. Tailor your oral care routine with these specialized items to combat dry mouth effectively.
4. Embrace Biotene Products
Biotene offers a variety of dry mouth products, such as mouthwash and mouth spray, available both in pharmacies and online. These products are formulated to provide soothing relief and combat the effects of reduced saliva production.
Consider incorporating Biotene toothpaste into your oral care routine. The toothpaste complements other Biotene products, providing comprehensive protection against dry mouth symptoms.
5. Opt for Sugar-Free Gum or Mints:
While X-Pur products excel in dry mouth management, there are numerous alternatives on the market. Experiment with various sugar-free gums or mints to find the one that best suits your preferences and effectively stimulates saliva production.
Look for products containing xylitol, a sugar substitute that not only enhances sweetness but also helps combat dental issues by inhibiting the growth of bacteria.
6. Prioritize Regular Dental Checkups
Maintaining regular dental checkups is paramount for overall oral health. Schedule appointments with your dentist to monitor any developments related to dry mouth, receive professional cleanings, and address potential issues early on.
Discuss your dry mouth concerns with your dentist during checkups. They can provide personalized recommendations and may suggest additional preventive measures based on your specific condition.
For individuals with Sjogren's, scaling every three months is recommended. Scaling involves the removal of tartar and plaque from the teeth, promoting gum health and preventing complications associated with dry mouth.
If frequent scaling poses financial challenges, communicate openly with your dentist. They can work with you to develop an alternative plan that ensures your dental health is maintained between visits without causing undue financial strain.
Continued Management of Dry Mouth
Managing dry mouth is not only about finding effective solutions but also adopting a holistic approach to oral care.
Remember, the journey to optimal oral health involves experimentation and customization to find what works best for you. By staying proactive, discussing concerns with your dentist, and implementing these practical tips, you empower yourself to navigate the challenges of dry mouth with confidence.
If you are looking for a curated list of products that have been tried, tested and true to help Sjogren's disease patients you can check out the Sjogren's Roadmap Dry Mouth Essentials List.
Ultimately, oral health is an integral part of overall well-being, and these steps contribute not only to symptom relief but also to a vibrant and healthy smile. Embrace these strategies, stay informed, and take charge of your oral health journey. Here's to a brighter, healthier future for your smile!
I wish you Health and Happiness,
Heather 💜
References:
RDH Magazine, Article The daily struggle with Sjogren's syndrome: Guiding dental patients to relief from pain