Persistent dry mouth is a condition that makes one more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease, and inhibits your body’s efforts to naturally remineralize and protect tooth enamel. Referred to as “xerostomia,” dry mouth is a decrease in the amount of saliva produced in one’s mouth. Salivary flows tend to decrease in most people as they age, and many people experience some level of xerostomia due to age-related medical conditions and the side effects of medications.
A prolonged bout of dry mouth can lead to a significant increase in potential cavity formation and periodontal disease because the decrease in saliva leads to an imbalance of pH in the mouth and decreases the natural buffering and antimicrobial properties in saliva. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, dry mouth could be partially responsible for up to 30 percent of tooth decay in older adults. Xerostomia has also been linked to oral candidiasis (thrush), burning mouth syndrome, and can lead to a decrease in taste bud sensitivity.
If we determine that your dry mouth is persistent enough to need treatment, Island Tower Dentistry has established protocols to address the condition based on its severity and potential impact to your oral health. Our treatment protocols consist of:
Dr. Van Dyke and his qualified team of dental hygienists, dental assistants, and office support staff are ready to assist you with all of your dental needs. To contact Island Tower Dentistry regarding a dental concern or to make an appointment, call 239-394-1004. Our office is conveniently located at 606 Bald Eagle Drive, Suite 200, Marco Island, Florida 34145.
Everyone at the office is welcoming and do their jobs well. Like everyone there but glad I only see them several times a year for teeth cleaning!
Excellent dental office with friendly and professional staff. Doctor was outstanding.
I have been a patient of Dr. Hermann Schulze for a very long time and when I heard the news about a new dentist coming on board I was a bit nervous at first, but at the same time I knew Dr .Schulze wouldn’t let us down with who he chose to be on their… team. So far I have NO complaints about the work Dr. Van Dyke did on my crowns a couple days ago. I had to get two temporary crowns put in before the real ones get put in. Since it’s been a couple days since he worked on me, other than the usual pain I don’t feel any awkwardness in my bite. That was the most I was concerned about. I am very pleased and happy and also thankful that he did such a great job. He was very steady with the drill and would always make sure I was okay while he was working on me. I felt very comfortable. I also love everyone else there everyone has always been super nice. Hannah was Dr. Van Dyke’s assistant and she was very sweet and helpful. I definitely suggest if you haven’t tried them out yet, you won’t be disappointed!! Read more “You Won’t be Disappointed”
I can’t stress enough how impressed I am with this dentist office. These individuals really make your visit comfortable. If your looking for a new dentist I would look no further.
Dr. Van Dyke and his staff do a wonderful job. They are very personable, the office is nice and they are accommodating to patients.
This is an amazing dental practice and I always feel confident that I am getting consistent, fantastic service here. I live out of state but plan my appointments every time I visit the island – I refuse to put my dental health in anyone else’s hands. Everyone is so warm and welcoming and I love… the environment. Thank you for your expertise and thoroughness! Read more “Fantastic Service”
Our family loves Island Tower Dentistry and the rest of the staff. I can’t say enough good things about this dental office.
Dr. Van Dyke is very kind and knowledgeable. He explained in detail everything that I needed to have done which really helped me understand the next steps.
I also always look… forward to my time spent with the Dental hygienist as they keep me relaxed because they are great at what they do! Read more “Family Loves!”
Dr Van Dyke is wonderful! My teeth were fractured and in horrible condition. Dr van Dyke assessed my issues, made a plan of attack and over several months restored my smile and my teeth. He also did surgery on my gums to prevent tooth loss. All this was done painlessly! He is kind and a… dentist that is serious about helping patients! Read more “Dentist who Cares”
Had my “introductory “ visit today. Tomorrow is teeth cleaning appt. The office is beautiful and the staff couldn’t be nicer. Dr Van Dyke was very Thorough And I’m looking forward to having him as my dentist
Island Tower Dentistry is the most professional dental office I have ever visited. With their continuous education among staff members, there is no wonder why I leave there knowing I received the best treatment. On top of that, it is a very warm and welcoming office to step into. I actually enjoy going to my… appointments! Read more “Best Treatment”
Just had a session with a first class hygienist. She was exceptionally professional in her manner and technique.
Dr Van Dyke is new to the practice and to our experience a great addition. After a front tooth broke off at the gym line, he evaluated, made impressions. Made a temporary, did a root extraction, put in the temporary and my partner walked out with perfectly matching front teeth. The biggest positive point is… that he had NO pain after a long , involved visit. Read more “NO Pain”