Some Medications Can Affect Oral Health
Did you know that hundreds of prescription medications can cause oral side effects? The most common side effect is dry mouth, which can be brought on by more than 400 different drugs. Dry mouth raises the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Other common oral side effects include the overgrowth of yeast or other microbes, mouth sores, growth of excessive gum tissue, changes in taste, and staining of teeth. For example, tetracycline can stain teeth when it’s taken in early childhood. The oral effects of medications are a particular problem for older adults, because they tend to take the most medication.
Here are some of the medications that can cause oral side effects. If you experience any of these effects, talk with your doctor.
Oral Side Effects of Medications
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Side Effect
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Medications
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Dry mouth
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Tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, diuretics, anti-anxiety drugs, anticonvulsants, barbiturates, decongestants, muscle relaxants, bronchodilators, narcotic painkillers, and many others
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Staining of teeth
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Tranquilizers, oral contraceptives, antimalarial drugs, tetracycline (taken in early childhood when the teeth are developing), chlorhexidine
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Overgrowth of gum tissue
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Cyclosporine, calcium-channel blockers, antiseizure medication
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Oral yeast infection (thrush)
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Combinations of antibiotics and steroid drugs
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Death of bone tissue
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Bisphosphonates used intravenously in cancer treatment and, less frequently, oral bisphosphonates for osteoporosis prevention and treatment
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Source: Dental Health for Adults: A Guide to Protecting Your Teeth and Gums. Copyright © by Harvard University. All rights reserved.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Weber, Hans-Peter, DMD
Date Last Reviewed:
5/25/2010
Date Last Modified:
5/25/2010
The views represented by this article are that of the author and not of Delta Dental. This article is provided for information only. Please consult with a licensed dentist to discuss the best way for you to improve or maintain your oral health.
In all cases, specific group contract provisions, benefits, limitations and exclusions take precedence over oral health recommendations given here. We recommend that you contact your dental benefits carrier to determine the specific limitations and exclusions for your group.