About half of all Americans take prescription medications and other dietary supplements, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even when they are used as\ directed, they might cause harmful side-effects to your oral health.
Always let our team know about medicines or supplements you are taking or if your regimen has changed since your last visit.
Here are some of the most common medication side-effects that can impact your oral health.
Dry Mouth
Many medications can reduce saliva production. These include some antidepressants, antihistamines, inhalers, and Alzheimer’s disease medications. When your mouth does not produce enough saliva, it is more susceptible to tooth decay, inflammation, infection, and other problems.
Fungal Infection
If you use inhalers for asthma, COPD, and other breathing conditions, you are susceptible to a fungal infection of the mouth known as oral candidiasis. To help prevent it, rinse your mouth with water after using an inhaler.
Abnormal Bleeding
If you are on blood-thinning medication, you may experience excessive bleeding during some dental treatments. Popular supplements such as turmeric, cinnamon, oregano oil, and cayenne pepper contain salicylates, which are natural blood thinners. Let us know what medications and supplements you take before your appointment to ensure the safest endodontic treatment.
Gum Tissue Enlargement
Overgrowth or enlargement of gum tissue is a possible side-effect of some immunosuppressant drugs and calcium channel blockers. Patients taking these medications should pay special attention to keeping teeth and gums clean to prevent inflammation or decay.
Soft Tissue Reactions
Oral sores, inflammation, or soft tissue discoloration can be side-effects of some prescription medicines like oral contraceptives, chemotherapy drugs, and blood pressure treatments. If you experience this type of reaction, we will recommend a special oral hygiene routine.
Tooth Decay
While tooth decay is not a direct side-effect of medication, you are probably aware that some manufacturers use sugar to improve the flavor of gummies, liquids, and lozenges. When these medicines are used over time, the sugar left on the teeth can promote tooth decay. When possible, select sugar-free versions of medications, take them with meals, or rinse your mouth if you don’t have time to brush.
If you have concerns or questions about medications and gum health, contact our Louisville dental office. WE can offer palliative and preventive treatments to safeguard your oral health while you’re treating a medical condition.