The Best Ways to Combat Dry Mouth During Pregnancy
The occasional case of dry mouth happens to the best of us. Maybe you’re a nighttime mouth breather, or you haven’t sipped enough water throughout the day. But when you’re pregnant? Your mouth might get drier than the Sahara desert on the daily. Turns out, dry mouth is a pretty common (albeit strange) pregnancy symptom, and just like other prenatal woes (think: morning sickness, swollen ankles, and low-back pain) it can be pretty unpleasant. Luckily, you don’t have to live with those cracked lip corners, dry tongue, or dry lips during pregnancy forever. Read on to learn the most common causes of dry mouth during pregnancy, remedies to relieve it, and when it’s time to see your dentist or doctor.
What causes dry mouth during pregnancy?
Pregnant people are more likely to produce less saliva, which leads to dry mouth. Here are a few reasons why:
- Changing hormones: Pregnancy hormones can affect just about every system in your body, including saliva production.
- Dehydration: Pregnant people need more water than nonpregnant folks, and not drinking enough can lead to dry mouth.
- Gestational diabetes: Dry mouth can be a sign of gestational diabetes, a condition that can develop during pregnancy.
- Thrush: An overgrowth of oral fungus can cause dry mouth during pregnancy.
- Swollen nasal passages: Pregnancy rhinitis can lead to dry mouth due to mouth breathing.
- Snoring: Changes in blood flow and a stuffy nose can contribute to snoring and dry mouth during pregnancy.
Remedies for Dry Mouth During Pregnancy
If you’re experiencing dry mouth during pregnancy, here are some remedies to help alleviate the symptoms:
- Proper oral hygiene: Brush twice and floss once a day to ward off the growth of fungus.
- Saltwater rinse: Rinsing with salt water can soothe painful mouth sores.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight to 12 glasses of water a day to prevent dehydration.
- Treat gestational diabetes: Work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar levels and stay healthy.
- Treat thrush: If you suspect oral thrush, see your doctor for treatment.
By following these tips and staying on top of your oral health, you can combat dry mouth and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy experience. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about dry mouth or any other symptoms during pregnancy.
