Beverly Hills, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/01/2012 -- According to the latest statistics, 90% of adults over the age of 65 take at least one type of prescription medication daily in addition to the nearly half of all Americans in every other age group already on prescription medications. While most may cause relatively mild side effects, many individuals describe dry mouth or “cotton mouth” as a common problem. Though it may not seem like an overly worrisome issue, dry mouth is not only uncomfortable but it can impede a person’s ability to taste, swallow, digest and even talk correctly in severe circumstances. Beverly Hills Periodontist Dr. Alex Farnoosh comments, “On average, the normal adult will produce around one and a half liters of saliva daily, it is important to keep our bodies well regulated to ensure a healthy lifestyle and to avoid future problems. I would advise my patients to be vigilant of any side effects that may occur with special attention to dry mouth problems because Xerostomia can lead to other oral complications such as rampant cavities.”

Currently, Dr. Alex Farnoosh is joining the efforts of The American Dental Association (ADA), the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and countless other pharmaceutical organizations to raise awareness around medication related dry mouth. More than 500 prescription and over the counter medications can lead to dry mouth problems including many diuretics, decongestants, antidepressants, antihistamines and blood pressure and pain medications. With the number of people on daily medication growing, it is important to raise awareness on this issue to combat the problem early on.

While many may choose to deal with minor to severe dry mouth discomfort for the sake of their daily medicinal needs, there are ways to combat the problem. Dr. Alex Farnoosh recommends, “Speak to your doctor about alternative medications available that may not cause this symptom. If the dry mouth persists, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Not only is dry mouth irritating, but it can also put your oral health in jeopardy because normal saliva production is essential to cleanse your teeth and gums of bacteria. A buildup of bacteria can lead to more severe dental issues like Periodontal Disease.” To learn more about Dr. Farnoosh and how to achieve The Total Smile, visit: http://www.thetotalsmile.com

About The Total Smile
The Total Smile was founded by Beverly Hills Periodontist Dr. Alex Farnoosh. Serving patients from around the globe at his Beverly Hills office for over 25 years, Dr. Farnoosh has proven expertise in the field of dentistry and offers many unique cosmetic and surgical services. Dr. Farnoosh specializes in dental implants, laser periodontal surgery, gum and bone grafting and his novel gum bleaching approach for treatment of dark and discolored gums and his lip-lowering treatment for a gummy smile. Dr. Farnoosh has been recognized by the Consumers’ Research Council of America (CRC) as one of America’s top dentists in their annual report since 2008. To learn more about Dr. Farnoosh and how to achieve The Total Smile, visit: http://www.thetotalsmile.com