According to the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, nearly half of Americans take at least one prescription medication. When you add the number of people who take over-the-counter medication, the number climbs to more than 70 percent of the population. Side effects, many of which affect the mouth, are possible with any medication. Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, who offers general dentistry in Astoria, NY, explains that understanding the effects of medicine on your oral health helps prevent adverse consequences.
Some medications, such as those taken to treat infections or relieve pain, are used only temporarily, after which any side effects disappear. Medications taken for hypertension, diabetes, depression, and other conditions may be taken for several years, or indefinitely. Fortunately, it is possible to continue with treatment without compromising your teeth and gums in the process. When you visit for a dental checkup or cleaning, it’s helpful to know which medications you take and how often you take them. Although some oral health side effects are unpleasant, you should always speak with your doctor before discontinuing your medication.
Common Side Effects Affecting the Mouth
Taking antihistamines, such as Benadryl and other allergy medications, causes your salivary glands to produce less saliva. Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, increases your risk for oral infections, soft tissue inflammation, and tooth decay. If you wear dentures, dry mouth may interfere with the fit of your prosthetic. Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated, or try sugar-free chewing gum or lozenges. Over-the-counter saliva substitutes and dry mouth products are helpful and come in a variety of formulas and forms, such as oral rinses, sprays, and even gel.
Gingival hyperplasia, or an overgrowth of gum tissue, occurs as a side effect of several medications, including calcium channel blockers, anti-seizure medications, and immunosuppressant drug therapy. In many cases, a doctor will recommend frequent professional cleaning and a more intensive hygiene regimen to control overgrowth. Otherwise, it may be necessary to perform a gingivectomy to remove excess gum tissue before it interferes with the patient’s oral hygiene efforts.
If you take medication for high blood pressure, oral contraception, or chemotherapy, you may have an increased risk of problems affecting the soft tissues in your mouth. These include discoloration, inflammation, and formation of small sores on or in the mouth.
A patient on aspirin therapy, or who takes heparin, warfarin, or other anticoagulants to treat cardiovascular disease or stroke may experience abnormal bleeding. However, this is generally of concern only when the patient undergoes oral surgery or is currently undergoing treatment for periodontal disease.
Certain antibiotics, particularly tetracycline, cause permanent discoloration on developing teeth when taken long-term. The teeth appear darker or slightly gray, in which case cosmetic dentistry may be a viable solution. Professional teeth whitening is an option, or Dr. Leibowitz will consider whether porcelain veneers can improve the appearance of your teeth. Another option, dental bonding, achieves results similar to veneers, but can be completed in a single office visit.
A Note on Oral-Systemic Health
Just as it’s important to inform your dentist of your medications and health conditions, your physician may be interested to know if you’ve been diagnosed with or screened for periodontal disease and oral cancer. Several studies link gum disease to major health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and even diabetes. When you visit Dr. Leibowitz for your twice-yearly dental exams, he will examine your teeth and gums for possible indications of gum disease and oral cancer.
Oral health is an important aspect of whole-body health. To learn more about treating the effects of medication on your teeth and gums, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, contact us at (718) 728-8320. We offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental care to patients living in upstate New York, Astoria, Queens, NYC, and New Jersey.
