In a perfect world, we could simply pop a pill or puff on an inhaler with no fear of uncomfortable side effects. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Dr. Amanda Foust, a general dentist in Ankeny, IA, explains that many of the most commonly prescribed medications list oral and dental side effects as a possibility. While only you and your doctor can make important decisions about your medication, we believe it’s helpful to understand these effects and what they mean for your oral health.
Commonly Reported Side Effects Affecting Teeth and Gums
Even over-the-counter medications, such as those taken for allergies, have the potential to cause side effects. Antihistamines such as Benadryl, Claritin, and Zyrtec all list dry mouth as a possible side effect. Taking these products affects your salivary glands, making your mouth more susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. If you wear removable dentures, dry mouth may affect the way your prosthetic fits in your mouth. Increasing your water intake has a hydrating effect on your mouth. You may also consider over-the-counter saliva substitutes, which are available in the form of sprays, rinses, and gels. Dr. Foust also recommends chewing sugar-free gum, or sucking on sugar-free lozenges.
Long-term use of immunosuppressant drugs, seizure medications, and calcium channel blockers can lead to overgrowth of gum tissue, also called gingival hyperplasia. Your Ankeny dentist may advise you to schedule professional dental cleaning more frequently than every 6 months, or you may need to adopt a more rigorous oral care regimen. If overgrowth becomes severe, Dr. Foust may recommend a gingivectomy to prevent the tissue from making it difficult to clean your teeth.
Several medications for hypertension and chemotherapy affect the soft tissue within your mouth and throat. As such, you may experience inflammation and discoloration of the tissues, or you may notice small sores inside of your mouth. Oral contraceptives can also cause these side effects.
Tetracycline and other antibiotics sometimes cause your teeth to become permanently discolored, making them appear gray or slightly yellow. This generally occurs in younger patients whose teeth have not fully developed, and only when taken long-term. If discoloration is severe, you may be a candidate for professional teeth whitening. If whitening does have the desired effect, Dr. Foust may recommend porcelain veneers or bonding.
Have you noticed unexplained oral health issues? To learn more about safeguarding your teeth and gums against side effects of medication, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Amanda Foust, contact Dental Impressions at 515-965-0230. We welcome patients of all ages living in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and the surrounding communities.
