DRY MOUTH

Do you suffer from dry mouth? Ever feel like your mouth has turned to cotton?  Certain medications can cause this; aging and post-menopause are other causes and I'm sure there are probably many more. Here are a few suggestions to try if you suffer from dry mouth:

• Forget traditional mouthwash. Alcohol and harsh chemicals can kill off beneficial bacteria in the mouth and make matters worse. Try using mouthwash that is alcohol-free.
• Snack on raw veggies, especially carrots and celery. Such snacking stimulates saliva flow, cleans the teeth and helps the mouth to feel moist.
• Sip on green tea. The antioxidants called catechins that may support oral health. Also, the tea helps keep you hydrated, another key to easing dryness. Aim for 2 to 3 cups daily. Either hot tea or iced tea is fine. And drinking decaf is okay.
• Sugar-free gum is also a way to stimulate saliva and help with dry mouth.

Of course, if dry mouth becomes a problem with swallowing or persistent bad breath, see a doctor and/or a dentist. 

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HOMEMADE PEPPERMINT MOUTHWASH

A local dentist recommends brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing as needed. He also has this recipe for homemade mouthwash.

1 cup distilled water

1 tsp 3% hydrogen peroxide

1 tbsp raw honey

5 drops peppermint essential oil

Combine essential oil with honey, mix thoroughly. Add to the water and hydrogen peroxide, shake.

Rinse mouth and spit. DO NOT SWALLOW. If you make this and give as gifts, be sure to include do not swallow on the label.

Note: File Photo