The Importance of Telling Your California Dentist about Every Medication You Are Taking
Many individuals are unaware of how critical it is to inform their dentist about any medications they are taking. Some people feel that they only need to tell their dentist about prescription drugs, but they should also know about over-the-counter medications they take on a daily basis. Others feel that if their dentist is going to prescribe medicine, they merely need to inform them what they’re taking.
In reality, your dentist needs to know about your medications for a variety of reasons, including the fact that many drugs have oral adverse effects. We can help you prevent or address the adverse effects of drugs if you let California Dental Group know about them. Some of the most frequent oral side effects are included here, along with some basic, generic remedies. If you want immediate assistance, please call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161.
Dry mouth can be caused by some drugs
The medical term for it is xerostomia, although most people associate it with the sensation of having a dry mouth. This illness can be brought on by a variety of drugs. True, it may appear to be nothing more than a small inconvenience, but remember that saliva has a purpose: it aids in the prevention of germs and plaque formation in your mouth. Drinking enough of water is the most effective strategy to combat dry mouth. If you have any additional concerns regarding your dry mouth, please discuss them with us at your dental cleaning.
Gingival hypertrophy is a common occurrence
Gingival enlargement is a side effect of several drugs, particularly those provided for persons with high blood pressure. It’s basically a disorder in which your gums expand and begin to grow over your teeth. It can progress to serious gum disease if not addressed. The good news is that California Dental Group can provide treatments and follow-up to help you avoid long-term problems.
Sweetened medications can lead to tooth decay
Cough drops and antacid pills are among the sweetened drugs available on the market. If a drug is dissolved or in liquid form, sugar is usually added to make it simpler to swallow. The trouble with this, of course, is that the sugars can attach to your teeth and cause or worsen dental rot. If you’re taking sweetened meds, make sure you clean your teeth afterward.
Other possible negative consequences
The aforementioned are only a few of the most prevalent medical side effects. Oral contraceptives and blood pressure drugs can induce mouth sores, while acne treatments can discolor teeth and certain over-the-counter prescriptions can cause mouth ulcers.
It’s not about avoiding meds; it’s about making sure your doctor understands what you’re taking. When you deal with California Dental Group, we’ll check through all of your prescriptions to determine if there are any potential side effects that need to be monitored. Make an appointment with us now by calling (800) 407-0161.
