Can Medications Affect Your Oral Health? 5 Side Effects to Know

Knowing how medications affect your oral health can help prevent side effects from causing harm. Understanding the common side effects, the types of medications to be aware of, and how to manage those effects can help improve your overall oral health and your teeth as you age.

5 Common Medication Side Effects That Can Affect Your Oral Health

Increased Risk of Cavities

Sugar is often found in liquid medications, cough drops, vitamins, antacid tablets, and antifungal agents. People who take medications long term may be at greater risk of developing tooth decay when they use sweetened medications.

Gum Swelling and Bleeding

Medications that may cause gum swelling and bleeding often include anti-seizure drugs, calcium channel blockers for blood pressure, and immunosuppressants. Blood thinners and NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) can also increase the risk of gum bleeding.

Bruxism - Tooth Grinding and Jaw Clenching

Medications that cause bruxism (teeth grinding or jaw clenching) commonly affect neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, with symptoms often appearing three to four weeks after starting a new prescription. The primary culprits are antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs, alongside ADHD stimulants and certain antipsychotics.

Bone Loss and Damage to the Jawbone 

Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the jaw, also called MRONJ, or bone loss is caused primarily by antiresorptive and antiangiogenic agents used to treat osteoporosis and cancer. These drugs are important and are often described as slowing the loss of bone density and helping limit or prevent the spread of cancer to the bones. 

Unfortunately, a side effect of these medications is osteonecrosis of the jaw. This is a serious complication that affects jawbone tissue and can lead to oral swelling, gum infections, jawbone fractures, and tooth loss. However, early detection, specialized dentistry, and oral surgery can help treat this condition.

Fungal Infections and Mouth Sores

Common medications that can cause fungal infections, such as oral thrush, and mouth sores include inhaled corticosteroids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, and immunosuppressants. These drugs, along with NSAIDs, antihistamines, and some blood pressure medications, can cause mouth sores, ulcers, and yeast overgrowth by disrupting the oral flora or causing dry mouth.

What should you do when medication affects oral health?

When medication affects oral health - causing dry mouth, gum swelling, or sores - the first step is to prioritize your oral health routine. 

To help improve your oral health while taking medication, you can use fluoride toothpaste, maintain a strong at-home oral hygiene routine, and schedule regular dental check-ups to help manage any potential side effects affecting your mouth.

Discuss your side effects with your dental care team at Michael J. Spitzer, DDS.

Your Health, Our Priority

At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, we understand that medications play a crucial role in managing your overall health. Please never stop taking any recommended medications without first consulting your physician. Together, we can develop a plan to support both your health and your smile.

In addition to the issues mentioned above, some medications can also cause changes in your sense of taste, bad breath, and even indigestion, which can affect your oral comfort. If you are experiencing any of these side effects, our team can offer solutions that can make a big difference.

We are committed to supporting your whole-body health and the function, comfort, and health of your smile! Whether you need help managing dry mouth, treating gum overgrowth, or finding relief from tooth grinding, we offer a range of comprehensive treatments, including Botox for bruxism, oral splints, and gingivectomy procedures.

---

Reach out to Michael J. Spitzer, DDS in Costa Mesa, CA, today to schedule an appointment. Let's work together to keep your smile healthy, no matter what medications you take!