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Dentists have been seeing mouth dryness issues in some patients due to mask-induced breathing habits

As people continue to mask up in public, they may be experiencing a new phenomenon that more and more dentists are seeing in patients: "mask mouth."

"We are basically mouth-breathing and mask mouth is that mouth dryness that you notice when you're breathing through your mouth more than you normally would," explained Sue Nichols, RDH, a dental hygiene instructor at Owens Community College.

And that mouth dryness shouldn't be ignored.

While many people are experiencing bad breath because of it, experts say it can grow to even bigger problems like cavities or gingivitis.

"Eventually gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease and periodontal disease is an infection around the bone of the teeth, so the infection with the bone around the teeth can eventually cause mobile teeth and tooth loss," said Nicole Buchanan, RDH.

Those looking for a quick fix may use sugar-free hard candies to build up saliva, but an even better solution is sticking to daily healthy habits.

"Stay ahead of your brushing and flossing," Nichols said. "You should be drinking a lot of fluids, particularly water. Not soda, not sports drinks, drink water."

Health experts say mask mouth is not an excuse to avoid wearing a mask when you can't social distance.

If you've tried every oral solution but are still experiencing dry mouth or bad breath, you should contact a doctor or a dentist.

(07/20/2021)
by Sophia Perricone

More Information: https://nbc24.com/news/local/dentists-seeing-mouth-dryness-issues-in-some-patients-due-to-mask-induced-breathing-habits

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