Chronic Dry Mouth or Lack of Saliva
A dry mouth or salivary gland hypofunction is a condition in which the mouth is chronically dry. Saliva is produced in the parotid glands, and when it is insufficient, it increases the risk of cavities and tooth decay. A dry mouth also causes gum disease, which can lead to yellow teeth. By changing the mouth’s pH from acidic to alkaline, bacteria will thrive and lead to plaque buildup.
When the body is dehydrated, it produces less saliva, which helps to ward off bacteria and keep your teeth healthy. Unfortunately, dehydration can also cause an increase in acid production, which weakens tooth enamel and can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and other dental problems. In addition, you may suffer from plaque buildup without enough saliva to wash away food particles and residue from your teeth. In some cases, chronic dry mouth can even lead to oral cancer. All of these issues can affect your teeth’s appearance, causing them to appear yellowed or stained.
