Norlane Dental
Condition · Dry mouth

Dry mouth is common and worth checking.

Saliva helps protect teeth and gums. When your mouth feels dry for long periods, the risk of decay, gum problems and mouth discomfort can increase. At our Norlane practice we look at possible causes and talk through ways to manage it.
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Dry mouth Saliva and decay risk Medication review with your GP Protective products Treatment after assessment Norlane · Geelong · est. 1974 Dry mouth Saliva and decay risk Medication review with your GP Protective products Treatment after assessment Norlane · Geelong · est. 1974
general dentistry
Norlane · Geelong
One location since 1974
Dry mouth · Norlane

Saliva does more than you might think.

Saliva helps wash away food, neutralise acids, and supply minerals that help repair early damage to enamel. A persistently dry mouth, also called xerostomia, reduces these protective effects.

Common causes include some medications, dehydration, mouth breathing, smoking, and certain medical conditions or treatments. Your dentist can help identify likely causes, protect your teeth, and suggest when to speak with your GP.

Norlane Dental
One location since 1974
Signs

Common signs of dry mouth.

If these sound familiar, mention them at your next check-up.
N° 01
Feeling
A dry or sticky mouth
A frequent feeling of dryness, or thick, stringy saliva.
N° 02
Thirst
Frequent thirst
Needing to sip water often, including at night.
N° 03
Eating
Difficulty swallowing
Trouble chewing, swallowing or speaking, especially with dry foods.
N° 04
Breath
Bad breath
Less saliva can contribute to bad breath.
N° 05
Mouth
Sore or cracked lips
Cracked lips, a sore throat or a burning feeling in the mouth.
N° 06
Teeth
More decay
New decay, especially near the gum line, can be a sign that saliva is not protecting teeth as well as it should.
Medications

Talk to your GP before changing medications.

Many common medicines can reduce saliva flow. Do not stop or change any medication because of dry mouth. Instead, let your dentist know what you take, and speak with your GP or pharmacist, who may be able to suggest alternatives.
Managing dry mouth

Everyday steps that may help.

happy smile and toothbrushing
01.

Sip water

Sip water regularly through the day and keep water by your bed at night.
02.

Chew sugar-free gum

Sugar-free gum or lozenges can help stimulate saliva flow.
03.

Limit drying drinks

Reduce alcohol, caffeine and sugary or acidic drinks, which can worsen dryness or decay risk.
04.

Protect your teeth

Use a fluoride toothpaste and ask us about high-fluoride products or saliva substitutes.
05.

Keep up check-ups

Regular check-ups help pick up decay or gum problems early.

Options we may discuss.

Please note
Options shown are general information only. Suitability is confirmed after an examination.

01.

Preventive
High-fluoride products
Prescription-strength toothpaste or professionally applied fluoride may help protect enamel.

02.

Relief
Saliva substitutes
Gels, sprays and rinses designed to help keep the mouth moist.

03.

Referral
GP review
Where medications or medical conditions may be involved, we may suggest a review with your GP.

04.

Monitoring
More frequent check-ups
Shorter intervals between visits can help catch problems early.
If your mouth often feels dry, call (03) 5278 2666 and mention it when you book.
Dry mouth care in Norlane, Geelong

Let’s talk about dry mouth.

Request an appointment online or call (03) 5278 2666. We are open six days a week, including Saturdays.
Request a consultation
(opens in a new tab)
Call (03) 5278 2666
Location

Norlane Dental Aesthetics & Implants

21-29 Princes Highway
Norlane VIC 3214

Direct line

(03) 5278 2666

Reception is happy to help with enquiries and appointments

Hours

Mon – Thu · 8:30am – 6:30pm
Fri · 8:30am – 5:30pm
Sat · 8:30am – 4:00pm

Parking

Ample free on-site parking

Easy access from the Princes Highway, Norlane

Good to know

Frequently asked questions.

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