Tooth decay is the destruction of the outer surface of the tooth. Decay occurs when bacteria that form plaque is left to dissolve enamel and creates holes in a tooth. At Something To Smile About in Merrimack, NH, Dr. Kevin Boulard can perform a dental exam to determine what causes tooth decay, including a dry mouth. Cavities are a common problem for our patients but treating them quickly with tooth-colored fillings allows them to be restored without the need for extraction and a restoration, such as a crown or dental implant.
What is dry mouth?
Dry mouth is when the salivary glands don’t make enough saliva to keep the mouth wet. Saliva helps prevent tooth decay because it neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, which washes away food particles. It also helps you to chew and swallow. When left untreated, dry mouth puts you at risk for dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, burning mouth syndrome, and tooth loss in Merrimack, NH.
Symptoms of dry mouth
When you’re not producing enough saliva, you will notice a sticky or dry feeling in your mouth. You may also have persistent bad breath. Some patients even notice they have trouble chewing, speaking, or swallowing. In more severe cases, you may have a dry or grooved tongue or hoarseness. If you’re experiencing any of these signs of a dry mouth, contact the dental team at Something To Smile About today.
What is dry mouth caused from?
Dry mouth can be caused by lifestyle choices, changes in the body, or medical conditions, including:
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Illegal drugs
- Hormonal changes
- Aging
- Certain prescription drugs, such as antihistamines
- Asthma
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes.
- HIV/AIDS
During a dental exam at Something To Smile About, Dr. Kevin Boulard can determine if you have dry mouth tooth decay.
Tooth decay treatment
If you are diagnosed with dry mouth tooth decay, you will need a filling. At Something To Smile About, our dentist in Merrimack, NH uses tooth-colored fillings to rectify your oral health problem. We numb the treatment area with local anesthesia. Next, we remove the damaged tooth enamel. Once it is removed and we disinfect the tooth, we use a composite resin material to fill the tooth. We complete the procedure with tooth polishing so it matches your other teeth.
Learn more about how dry mouth can impact your oral health
Prevention is the best way to approach tooth decay. It’s important to schedule an appointment at Something To Smile About in Merrimack, NH whenever you are feeling changes with your teeth or gums. While cavities are normal, it’s important to address them early on before more of the tooth is damaged, and you may need an extraction and restoration to fix your missing tooth. Dr. Kevin Boulard performs dental fillings for patients of all ages. We take great care to match a patient’s tooth color, so their fillings look like a natural part of their smile. If you think you have a cavity caused by a dry mouth, call our office to schedule an exam.