Saliva is a crucial part of digestion. It helps lubricate food so it can be swallowed and starts the digestive process through an enzyme that starts to break down some fats and carbohydrates. It keeps the mouth lubricated, protects the teeth and helps the person taste their food. But if a person produces too much, it can be a source of embarrassment. Here are some excess saliva causes:
People are surprised to learn that wearing dentures can cause hypersalivation, especially if the patient is wearing dentures for the first time. Dentists consider this normal because the gums and other soft tissue in the mouth are adjusting to the presence of dentures. The salivary glands, in particular, are stimulated by dentures and secrete more saliva. The good news is that this problem usually goes away after the patient’s mouth and mind have adjusted to their dentures.
Conditions that cause pain in the mouth, such as ulcers, burns, irritation or inflammation can cause an excess of saliva. Teething famously causes babies to drool. Another of saliva’s functions is wound healing, so the excess production may be the body’s response to a wound in the mouth. The excess salvation goes away when the problem is treated.
Being bitten by a venomous animal or eating a poisonous mushroom is another of the excess saliva causes. Indeed, sometimes poison or venom causes the person to foam at the mouth. This is because the venom or poison disrupts nerve signals including those that control the tongue. When the person loses sensation in their tongue, they can’t control their saliva. The remedy, of course, is to get the patient medical help as soon as possible.
Heartburn and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
People who suffer from heartburn and GERD often regurgitate their own saliva. They not only regurgitate saliva but some of the contents of their stomach which are forced up into the esophagus, throat, and mouth. This happens because the sphincter between the stomach and esophagus doesn’t close tightly. The treatment of heartburn and GERD depends on how severe it is. Sometimes all the person needs to do is make changes in their diet or even sleep with their head elevated. In very severe cases, the GERD can only be treated surgically.
Since Parkinson’s disease affects the nerves and the muscles they serve, it makes it difficult for the patient to control their swallowing. This can lead to hypersalivation and difficulty eating. Moreover, the saliva of many Parkinson’s patients is sticky and thicker than normal. There are several ways to treat hypersalivation if a person has Parkinson’s. Some patients work with a speech pathologists to help them swallow while others take small bites of food or sips of liquid. Other patients find that improving their posture helps with excess salivation.
If You’re Worried About Hypersalivation, Contact Northview Dental today.
Residents of Ogden and surrounding areas who are experiencing hypersalivation and aren’t sure of the cause should call Northview Dental today to set up a consultation with a member of their caring and professional staff. The number is 801-528-9099.