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Dry Mouth? Please Take it Seriously.

dentist and dental assistant advising woman patient on oral health

Like it or not, allergy season is in full swing. When asked, “When is allergy season in Charleston?” the answer is: always. In South Carolina, allergy season lasts approximately ten months out of twelve. With our warmer climate, flowers and plants bloom and produce allergens for prolonged periods.

Allergies can be miserable for anyone who suffers from them. Congestion, postnasal drip, a sore throat, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes can make you want to hole up inside. Another common symptom of allergies is dry mouth. A dry mouth is more than just uncomfortable; it is also a threat to your oral health and should never be taken lightly.

When allergy symptoms cause you to have a stuffy nose, you will open your mouth to breathe. Mouth-breathing is a bad habit, but it often cannot be avoided during allergy season. Breathing in and out through the mouth can lead to a severe condition called Xerostomia, or dry mouth. This condition refers to the mouth being unable to produce enough saliva from the salivary glands to keep the mouth moist.

While you may not give much thought to it, saliva is an incredibly vital component of your oral health. Saliva keeps the mouth moist and comfortable, but more than that, it helps to wash away damaging bacteria from the teeth and gums. When the mouth is dry, bacteria will adhere to the teeth and cause inflammation to the gums. When bacteria-laden plaque hardens quickly in a dry mouth, it will turn into tartar. Tartar can only be removed at the dentist’s office, and without removal, it will cause irreversible damage to your smile.

Symptoms of a dry mouth include:

  • Frequent thirst
  • A dry throat
  • A sticky, dry feeling inside the mouth
  • Hoarseness
  • Sore throat
  • Bad breath
  • A dry, raw tongue

Most allergy medications contain antihistamines to help dry up the excess mucus produced by the inflamed sinuses. Unfortunately, as these medications dry up the mucus, they also dry out your mouth. You will need to increase your daily water intake while your mouth is dry to help prevent adverse oral health problems.

If dry mouth is making you uncomfortable, contact Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today.

Posted on behalf of Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone: (843) 507-5481

FAX: (843) 577-4653

Email:

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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Our Patients Reviews

Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I earnestly recommend Peninsula if you are looking for the highest quality care, expertise and, equally important, quality people. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
Matthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPherson is an amazing dentist and always takes time to explain everything in a way that makes sense. I will only go to Peninsula for all my dental needs!
Dana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. This was my first visit to this practice. I’ll always remain a patient due to my experience
John C.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. James B. Wisner

Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.

Dr. Caitlin McPherson

Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.

Address

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone (843) 507-5481
Fax (843) 577-4653
Email

Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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