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Release: Immediate
RELIANCE ON MEDICINE AT ROOT OF DENTAL DECAY ISSUE IN OLDER PATIENTS, SAYS CHARITY
RELIANCE ON MEDICINE AT ROOT OF DENTAL DECAY ISSUE IN OLDER PATIENTS, SAYS CHARITY
Dentists have identified multiple medications as a cause for the growing problem of dry mouth syndrome.
The UK’s leading dental health charity has warned that increased medication on offer " some 400 of which are linked to dry mouth (or xerostomia) " could have a serious impact on our oral health.
The British Dental Health Foundation – speaking after the US publication of an Academy of Dentistry survey which found 91 per cent of dentists linking multiple medications with dry mouth – has urged greater preventive action against the problems dry mouth can cause.
Foundation chief executive Dr Nigel Carter BDS LDS (RCS) said: “Dry mouth affects our saliva levels which can expose the teeth to risks of tooth decay, since saliva is a natural protection against caries.
“With advances in healthcare more and more medicines have hit the market. As more people take multiple medicines the risk of oral health problems such as xerostomia has greatly increased, especially amongst older people.
“Dry mouth increases exposure to the main causes of tooth loss, decay, erosion and gum disease, yet these problems are entirely preventable. A good oral health routine and regular trips to the dentist, as often as the dentist recommends, will help look after your mouth and quality of life.”
Dry mouth can also result by medical conditions such as diabetes and lupus, or natural factors such as aging and menopausal changes.
There are a wide range of products designed for dry mouth which can help prevent any problems preventing risks of decay and minimising other attendant issues, such as a lack of saliva affecting swallowing.
Products such as gels and sprays can help moisture levels in the mouth, while it is important to brush teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to prevent decay.
Avoiding sugary foods and citrus acids will minimise risks of dental decay and erosion. Though sucking sweets and chewing gum can help stimulate the flow of saliva and counteract dry mouth, it is vital to use sugar–free products. Those with more severe cases may even choose to sleep with a de–humidifier in the room and practice breathing through the nose rather than the mouth.
Alcohol, caffeine and salty foods are on the banned list in cases of dry mouth, while sufferers should drink plenty of water.
ENDS
Editor’s notes
For further information please contact the Foundation’s Press Office on 0870 770 4014 or by emailing pr@dentalhealth.org
The British Dental Health Foundation is an independent charity that along with its global arm, the International Dental Health Foundation, is dedicated to improving the oral health of the public by providing free and impartial dental advice, by running educational campaigns like National Smile Month and by informing and influencing the public, profession and government on issues such as mouth cancer awareness and water fluoridation.
The Foundation promotes three key messages:
• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Cut down how often you have sugary foods and drinks
• Visit the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend
The British Dental Health Foundation website is available at www.dentalhealth.org.uk
Members of the public can contact the Dental Helpline for free and impartial expert advice on 0845 063 1188 Monday to Friday.
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