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AGD Launches New Dry Mouth Campaign
Dry mouth is caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva in the mouth when the salivary glands do not work properly. The salivary glands help keep the mouth moist, which helps prevent decay and other oral health problems. Dry mouth may be a sign of a serious health condition or may occur when a person is upset or experiences stress.
Studies show that up to 400 prescription and over-the-counter medications can contribute to symptoms associated with dry mouth. The most common troublemakers are anti-hypertensives, anti-depressants, painkillers, tranquilizers, diuretics and antihistamines.
Dry mouth can cause extensive tooth decay (even in a person who’s had a healthy mouth for years), and it contributes to many other oral health problems.
The profession, as well as AGD member dentists, continues to see this condition increase due to a rise in medication consumption by the public. Please take a moment today to learn more about this issue.
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