09 May 2024 , 10:20
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Many people get a dry mouth occasionally - but it could be a sign of something much more serious.
The often overlooked symptom can be a red flag for five serious illnesses that Brits should keep a wary eye out for, one leading dentist has warned. It can often be benign, with less saliva being produced as Brits grow older, or linked to other issues, like snoring, medication, smoking, or too much alcohol.
However, poor oral health can also be a red flag for serious, and potentially life-threatening, illnesses like diabetes, a stroke and even HIV. Dr Azad Eyrumlu, of leading private dental firm Banning Dental Group, said that a persistent dry mouth can often be a sign of something going wrong elsewhere in the body.
He said: “A dry mouth can be a sign something’s not right elsewhere. 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.”
Dr Eyrumlu added: “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.”
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Dry mouth could be a red flag for:
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- HIV
- Alzheimer's Disease
- Sjogren’s syndrome
The condition where our salivary glands fail to produce sufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist is known as Xerostomia. Whilst we may never consider its importance, our spit plays a key role in our oral health as it helps neutralise acids produced by bacteria and also wash away food particles. It is also essential to prevent tooth decay, and also contains important enzymes that aid the digestive process, ensuring our bodies get the vitamins and nutrients they need.
It’s recommended to see a dentist every six months to make sure your oral hygiene is in good shape and to keep track of any developing problems. Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes with toothpastes containing fluoride twice a day, as well as regular flossing and the use of mouthwash.
A version of this story was first published on May 2, 2023.