subject: Prescription Drugs Can Have Adverse Effects On Dental Health [print this page] Many medications can have a negative effect on your oral health, including prescription drugs, vitamins, minerals and herbal preparations. So when you go to visit your dentist in Rochester, Dr. Phyllis Indianer, be sure to inform her of all of your medications you may be taking, including any vitamins or herbal supplements.
The Result: Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can be a potential side effect of numerous medications, whether they are prescribed or over-the-counter. Among these medications are antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, drugs for urinary incontinence, Parkinson's disease medications, antidepressants, and many others.
A dry mouth often irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, which can make them inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Without the cleansing effects of saliva, tooth decay and other oral health problems become more common. Sugar is often part of liquid medications, cough drops, vitamins, antacid tablets and anti-fungal agents, which can lead to tooth decay.
A Disruption in Your Taste
Some older adults may be susceptible to taste decline and/or taste disturbance, which can increase the risk of a loss in appetite, malnutrition, and weight loss. Medications can also cause a total loss of the ability to taste, decreased sensitivity to taste, or a distortion in taste. Often, these conditions are self-limiting and reversible with the discontinuation of the offending medication and help from your dentist.
Some medications that can alter your taste include:
*Cardiovascular drugs
*Central nervous system stimulants
*Flagyl, an antibiotic drug
*Nicotine skin patches for quitting smoking
*Some respiratory inhalants
If this side effect is intolerable, ask your doctor if your medication can be changed.
Abnormal Bleeding Caused by Medications
Reduced blood clotting can often be a side effect of aspirins and anticoagulants, such as heparin or warfarin. These medications can be helpful in preventing stroke or heart disease, but can cause bleeding problems during oral surgery or treatment for periodontal diseases. Be sure to let your Rochester dentist know that you are taking these medications so that special precautions can be taken to minimize bleeding when oral surgery or other procedures are needed. Also, be sure you are using a soft bristled toothbrush and gentle motions when brushing and flossing your teeth to lessen the bleeding as well.
Soft Tissue Reactions
Some medications have also been linked to the development of oral sores, inflammation or discoloration of the soft tissues in the mouth. These medications include those prescribed for blood pressure control, immunosuppressive agents, oral contraceptives and some chemotherapeutic agents. If you take any of these and develop a soft-tissue reaction, Dr. Indianer, your dentist in Rochester, MI, may prescribe a special oral hygiene regimen to limit the discomfort caused by oral ulcers or inflammation.
Take the next step to better dental health by providing your dentist in Rochester with an updated medical history and understand the side effects of many medications you may be taking.
