During the summer months, many people in Tigard find themselves battling an unexpected oral health challenge: dry mouth. Known medically as xerostomia, dry mouth is more than just an uncomfortable inconvenience. It can lead to persistent pain, oral health complications, and a lower quality of life.
If you or a loved one suffers from dry mouth in Tigard, OR, it’s important to understand the nature of the pain, how it can progress, and what you can do to find relief.
Call 503-210-9802 for an appointment at Premier Dental and Implants.
Patients often describe dry mouth as a burning or parched sensation that makes speaking, swallowing, or even eating certain foods feel uncomfortable. The tongue may feel rough or swollen, and lips can become cracked and sore.
Many report waking up during the night with a dry, sticky mouth or an intense thirst that won’t go away, no matter how much water they drink.
Some compare the sensation to having cotton balls stuck in their mouth. Others describe it as a persistent irritation — like the aftermath of biting into a hot slice of pizza and burning the roof of your mouth.
This chronic dryness doesn’t just hurt physically. It can impact self-confidence, making social interactions and meals unpleasant or anxiety-inducing.
If left untreated, dry mouth can evolve from a nuisance into a more serious dental issue. The lack of saliva reduces your mouth’s natural ability to wash away food particles and neutralize acids, leading to a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Over time, this can result in tooth sensitivity, infections, and eventually tooth loss.
People with chronic dry mouth often begin to experience secondary symptoms, such as a sore throat, hoarseness, or difficulty wearing dentures. Saliva also plays a crucial role in digestion and taste. A prolonged deficiency can impact your appetite and nutrition, worsening your overall health and comfort.
What begins as a subtle dryness can progress into a cycle of increasing oral discomfort and systemic health challenges.
Fortunately, professional treatment for dry mouth in Tigard can provide significant relief and prevent further damage. At Premier Dental and Implants, dry mouth therapies begin with a personalized evaluation to determine the cause, whether it’s due to medications, dehydration, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors.
Treatments may include saliva substitutes, custom mouth rinses, hydration guidance, and prescription medications to stimulate natural saliva production. Regular dental check-ups also allow your provider to monitor for early signs of decay and irritation, preventing minor discomfort from becoming major pain.
Sometimes, adjustments to medications or lifestyle changes are recommended to support long-term relief.
Advanced care ensures the mouth stays hydrated, the tissues remain healthy, and your smile stays protected—especially in dry, hot weather when symptoms tend to worsen.
You don’t have to endure the discomfort and complications of dry mouth in Tigard alone. At Premier Dental and Implants, our compassionate team is here to help you restore balance, comfort, and confidence in your smile. Let us ease your pain and protect your oral health with expert care tailored to your needs.
To schedule an appointment in Tigard, OR, call Premier Dental and Implants today at 503-210-9802 or contact us online.
