Have You Talked to Your Dentist About Every Medication You Take?
Many people don’t realize just how important it is to let their dentist know about medication they take. Some believe that they only need to let their dental professionals know about prescription medications, when in reality they should also be informed of over-the-counter meds you take on a regular basis. Others believe that they only need to tell their dentist what they’re taking if their dentist is going to prescribe medication.
In truth, there are a number of reasons that your dentist needs to know about medications you’re taking – including the fact that many medications can have oral side effects. When you let California Dental Group know about medications, we can help you avoid or treat the side effects of these medications. Following are some of the most common oral side effects and some simple, general solutions. If you need help with your specific needs, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 right away.
Some medications cause dry mouth
Its medical name is xerostomia, but most people know it by how it feels: Dry mouth. There are actually a lot of medications that can cause this condition. It’s true that it may seem like nothing more than a minor annoyance, but remember that saliva serves a purpose – it helps to prevent bacteria and plaque from forming in your mouth. The best way to fight dry mouth is to make sure to drink plenty of water. If you have other concerns about dry mouth, be sure to bring it up to us at your dental cleaning.
Gingival enlargement can occur
Some medications, especially those that are prescribed for people with high blood pressure, can cause a condition known as gingival enlargement. Essentially, it’s a condition in which the gums swell and actually start to grow over your teeth. If this isn’t treated, it can lead to severe gum disease. The good news is that California Dental Group can offer treatments and monitoring to reduce the likelihood of long-term issues.
Medication that’s been sweetened can cause tooth decay
There are a lot of medications on the market that are sweetened, including cough drops and antacid tablets. Typically, if a medication is dissolve or in liquid form then it’s likely got sugar added to make it easier to take. Of course, the problem with this is that the sugars can stick to your teeth and cause or increase tooth decay. If you’re using medications that have been sweetened, make sure you brush your teeth after you use them.
Other possible side effects
The examples above are just the most common side effects medicals cause. Certain oral contraceptives and blood pressure medications can also cause sores in your mouth, acne medications may discolor teeth, and some over the counter medications can lead to ulcers in your mouth.
The point is not to avoid medications but to make sure that your doctor knows what you’re talking. When you work with California Dental Group, we will go over all your medications to see if we need to keep an eye on potential side effects. Call us today at (800) 407-0161 for your appointment.
