The health of your mouth and the health of the rest of your body are intimately connected. It is important to recognize this because your oral health and hygiene can easily be affected by many different factors. One of the most common things that can affect your dental health is starting a new medication. For example, some medications may stain your teeth or cause dry mouth.
At Cashmere Family Dentistry, we want to keep you well-informed about your dental health, so we’ve compiled a list of medications that can affect your oral hygiene along with some things you can do to deal with their effects.
What Medications Can Affect The Health Of My Mouth?
There are a number of different medications that can affect your oral health. Here are a few of the most common:
- Aspirins and anticoagulants – Aspirin and anticoagulants, like Warfarin, can prevent proper blood clotting, leading to increased bleeding in those who have sensitive gums or gingivitis.
- Stimulants and cardiovascular drugs – Some stimulants and cardiovascular drugs can cause a metallic taste in the mouth, and affect your overall ability to taste.
- Blood pressure/immunosuppressant drugs – Drugs used for high blood pressure and some immunosuppressive agents can cause oral sores, inflammation, or other soft-tissue reactions in the mouth.
- Anti-seizure medications/immunosuppressant drugs – Some anti-seizure medications and medications used to prevent transplant rejection, can spur gum growth, resulting in enlarged gums.
- Antihistamines/decongestants/painkillers – Many commonly used over-the-counter drugs can cause dry mouth, which may increase your risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.
- Antibiotics – Some antibiotics, like tetracycline or doxycycline, can cause permanent staining to your teeth. This staining cannot be removed by simple teeth whitening procedures. Another cosmetic solution, such as a porcelain veneer, may be required.
How Can I Keep My Mouth Healthy?
Visiting your dentist for regular six month checkups is one of the most important things you can do for you dental health. Your dentist may be able to identify dental issues that are caused by medication, and recommend an appropriate solution. For example, the effects of dry mouth can be mitigated by chewing gum or limiting caffeine intake.
You should also make sure that you consult with your dentist about all medications that you are taking. This will help your dentist gain a better understanding of your overall oral health. Finally, you should maintain a good oral health regimen. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth will help prevent serious issues, even if your medication is having an adverse affect on your dental health.
Make Sure Your Mouth Is Healthy At Cashmere Family Dentistry!
If you suspect that a recent medication change is affecting your oral health, schedule an appointment with Cashmere Family Dentistry today. Dr. Ryan and Dr. Janie Busk can examine your mouth, and help you understand how your medications are affecting your dental health. They can also recommend a holistic oral health care regimen that will help mitigate these side effects.
Contact us now at (509) 782-2516 for an appointment, or come by our office in Leavenworth to learn more about what we do. Our address is 209 Aplets Way, Cashmere, WA 98815.
