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DRY MOUTH

Patients with dry mouth are at a much great risk for developing cavities and gum disease. With a dry mouth, the pH of the mouth will become more acidic and the acid buffering and tooth re-mineralizing benefits afforded with a healthy amount of saliva are reduced significantly, placing one at a high risk for developing cavities.

The acidity of your mouth can be reduced by rinsing six times daily with a mixture of 2 teaspoons of baking soda with 8 ounces of water. This will greatly reduce demineralization and help prevent cavities. Our family dental practice in Santa Rosa can also prescripe toothpastes and mouth rinses aimed to help patients with dry mouth prevent caries. Cleaning appointments should include an in-office fluoride varnish treatment that has been proven to reduce caries. In addition, xylitol gums or candies can help stimulate more saliva and kill the bad oral bacteria that cause decay.