What medication can mean for your mouth

Whether you’re taking prescription drugs or herbal supplements, medication can take a toll on your teeth.

Here are some of the most common side effects and which treatments are to blame.

Dry mouth

A decrease in saliva increases your risk of oral infections and tooth decay.

Medicinal culprits:

• antidepressants
• antihistamines
• asthma inhalers
• diuretics
• anti-anxiety drugs
• anticonvulsants
• decongestants
• muscle relaxants
• narcotic painkillers

Cavities

Sugar, syrups and other sweeteners in medication can put your teeth at risk. Always read the labels when selecting over-the-counter medicines, and don’t forget to rinse or brush after your dose.

Medicinal culprits:

• cough syrups
• cough drops
• vitamins
• antacid tablets
• liquid medications

Overgrowth of gum tissue

Gingival enlargement causes painful, inflamed gums that grow over the teeth.

Medicinal culprits:

• anti-seizure medications
• immunosuppressant drugs given after organ transplants
• calcium channel blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, migraines and Raynaud’s syndrome)

Mouth ulcers

These painful sores generally appear on the inside of the cheeks.

Medicinal culprits:

• aspirin
• ibuprofen
• beta blockers (used to prevent heart attacks and treat hypertension)
• nicorandil (used to treat chest pain) penicillin
• penicillin
• chemotherapy drugs

Enamel stains

Your pearly whites may significantly less white as a result of these medications.

Medicinal culprits:

• antihistamines
• antipsychotic drugs
• drugs for high blood pressure
• tetracycline and doxycycline (antibiotics)
• antiseptic mouth rinses that contain chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride

Thrush

Yeast infections of the mouth appear as white fungus on the tongue and throat.

Medicinal culprits:

• antibiotics
• birth control pills
• corticosteroids

Loss of bone tissue

By leaching minerals from your bone, some medications can increase your chance of losing teeth.

Medicinal culprits:

• bisphosphonates (used to treat cancer and prevent osteoporosis)
• antacids that contain aluminum
• steroids
• anti-seizure medications
• antidepressants
• hormone blockers (used to treat hormone-linked cancers and endometriosis)

Abnormal bleeding

Blood-thinning medications can cause problems during oral surgery, periodontal treatment or even flossing.

Medicinal culprits:

• aspirin
• antacids that contain aluminum
• anti-stroke drugs
• heart disease medications

Your dentist will be able to help you minimize these side effects and prevent damage to your oral health. Always give your dentist a complete list of medications you’re taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Related reading:

• Does your dentist know what’s in your medicine cabinet?
• Cough syrup and cavities
• Using herbal supplements? Why you should tell your dentist

Published: September 2015