What medication can mean for your mouth
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What medication can mean for your mouth
Whether you’re taking prescription drugs or herbal supplements, medication can take a toll on your teeth.
Here are some of the most common side effects and which treatments are to blame.
Dry mouth
A decrease in saliva increases your risk of oral infections and tooth decay.
Medicinal culprits:
- antidepressants
- antihistamines
- asthma inhalers
- diuretics
- anti-anxiety drugs
- anticonvulsants
- decongestants
- muscle relaxants
- narcotic painkillers
Cavities
Sugar, syrups and other sweeteners in medication can put your teeth at risk. Always read the labels when selecting over-the-counter medicines, and don’t forget to rinse or brush after your dose.
Medicinal culprits:
- cough syrups
- cough drops
- vitamins
- antacid tablets
- liquid medications
Overgrowth of gum tissue
Gingival enlargement causes painful, inflamed gums that grow over the teeth.
Medicinal culprits:
- anti-seizure medications
- immunosuppressant drugs given after organ transplants
- calcium channel blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, migraines and Raynaud’s syndrome)
Mouth ulcers
These painful sores generally appear on the inside of the cheeks.
Medicinal culprits:
- aspirin
- ibuprofen
- beta blockers (used to prevent heart attacks and treat hypertension)
- nicorandil (used to treat chest pain) penicillin
- penicillin
- chemotherapy drugs
Enamel stains
Your pearly whites may significantly less white as a result of these medications.
Medicinal culprits:
- antihistamines
- antipsychotic drugs
- drugs for high blood pressure
- tetracycline and doxycycline (antibiotics)
- antiseptic mouth rinses that contain chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride
Thrush
Yeast infections of the mouth appear as white fungus on the tongue and throat.
Medicinal culprits:
- antibiotics
- birth control pills
- corticosteroids
Loss of bone tissue
By leaching minerals from your bone, some medications can increase your chance of losing teeth.
Medicinal culprits:
- bisphosphonates (used to treat cancer and prevent osteoporosis)
- antacids that contain aluminum
- steroids
- anti-seizure medications
- antidepressants
- hormone blockers (used to treat hormone-linked cancers and endometriosis)
Abnormal bleeding
Blood-thinning medications can cause problems during oral surgery, periodontal treatment or even flossing.
Medicinal culprits:
- aspirin
- antacids that contain aluminum
- anti-stroke drugs
- heart disease medications
Dr.Nechupadam Dental,Marine Drive will be able to help you minimize these side effects and prevent damage to your oral health. Always give us a complete list of medications you’re taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.
