Some Medications Can Lead To Oral Health Problems

Dry Mouth

There are several medications that can lead to dry mouth. This condition occurs when there is a lack of sufficient saliva production. Saliva is very important because it helps clean your mouth. Without sufficient saliva, oral problems like gum infections and tooth decay can occur. Some of the medications that can lead to dry mouth include painkillers, antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications.

Therefore, if you are taking these medications and experiencing symptoms of dry mouth, you should sip water constantly throughout the day. You should also suck on sugar-free gum to promote saliva production. It is also important to limit the consumption of alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and tobacco.

Abnormal Bleeding

There are some medications that cause abnormal bleeding in your mouth. Aspirin and anticoagulants like warfarin are used to prevent heart disease and stroke. If you are using these medications and get treatment for gum disease, you could experience bleeding problems. This is why it important to inform us that you are taking anticoagulants so that we can put measures in place to prevent the bleeding.

Enlarged Gums

When a gum tissue overgrows around the teeth, it is known as gingival hyperplasia. This condition is caused by several factors but it is mostly due to poor oral health and a side-effect of various medications. Puffy and enlarged gums can occur when taking medications like immunosuppressant drugs. It could also occur when using calcium channel blockers for heart conditions and anti-seizure medications such as phenytoin.

If you think a certain medication is negatively affecting your oral health, feel free to schedule an appointment with our dental expert for a proper diagnosis. We are glad to help!