If you actively visit your dentist and take care of your dental health, you might be familiar with the dental condition of dry mouth or xerostomia. However, there is a condition that causes an opposite reaction of dry mouth, that is, producing too much saliva. While saliva is very important for your oral health, too much of it can feel strange and indicate a problem.
This condition, called sialorrhea, can happen for many reasons. Allergies, health problems, or certain medications might be the underlying cause. It might also be from stress, dental issues, or spicy foods. Even sour candies can make your saliva glands release more saliva than usual. Sometimes, the weather or stress can make the problem worse.
While some extra saliva in your mouth should not be a problem, too much saliva that does not go away might need professional attention. If the saliva issue keeps bothering you, a visit to the Van Nuys, CA dentist is a good idea. Getting professional help may seem unnecessary in this case, but it can make the problem go away sooner.
Common causes of too much saliva production
Producing too much saliva, known as hypersalivation, can be annoying and uncomfortable. There are many reasons for too much saliva, but the main ones are food and problems with your mouth or teeth.
- Food triggers.
The food you eat can make a big difference. Spicy or sour foods like chili peppers or lemons often make your mouth produce extra saliva. This happens because your body is trying to protect your stomach and help you digest. Chewing gum or sour candies can also increase saliva for a while, especially because chewing makes the saliva glands more active.
- Oral health problems.
Oral health issues in your mouth can also cause extra saliva. If you have gum disease, cavities, or infections, your body makes more saliva to help fight off the germs. Sometimes, things like dentures or braces with the incorrect fit can irritate your mouth. When that happens, your body makes more saliva to try and manage oral moisture.
- Medical conditions.
Some health problems can lead to the production of too much saliva. One major problem is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, where the stomach acid moves back into the throat. Therefore, your body produces more saliva to help wash away the acid.
Pregnancy can also cause more saliva. When a woman is pregnant, her hormonal changes can make the salivary glands work harder. More saliva can come with morning sickness, making things harder for the mother.
Nervous system issues can also lead to too much saliva. Diseases like Parkinson’s or having a stroke can affect how the body controls saliva. These conditions can make it hard to swallow, so saliva builds up in the mouth.
- Medications.
Certain medicines can make your mouth produce too much saliva. Antipsychotic drugs, like clozapine, are known to do this. Sedatives and other drugs that affect the nervous system can also increase saliva. A doctor can help you find other options or ways to manage the side effects.
- Allergies or infections.
Allergies or infections can also increase saliva production. One common reason is postnasal drip when mucus drips down the back of your throat. As a reaction, your body makes more saliva to wash away the mucus and keep your throat moist.
Moreover, things like pollen, dust, or pet hair can make allergies worse. They irritate your nose and throat, causing more saliva. Mouth sores or ulcers from infections or irritants can also make your body produce extra saliva.
Experiencing hypersalivation in Van Nuys?
Feeling too much saliva in your mouth is usually not linked to a serious problem. However, if the problem persists, it is important to determine the underlying cause. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to gain your oral comfort back!