Patients who are on medication or using herbs need to let us know when they fill out their history form or at the beginning of each appointment.
Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to severe tooth decay. Patients who use these medications need to lubricate their mouths with plenty of plain water or use one of the Biotene products, which lubricate the mouth and stimulate salivary flow. They should also have more frequent checkups and cleanings.
While all medications have potential side effects, over 400 drugs (spanning nearly every class) list potential adverse oral side effects such as dry mouth, gingivitis and canker sores. According to the manufacturers of these medications, dental problems can occur as a result of taking the following classes of drugs:
• Antihistamines
• Chemotherapy medications
• Antidepressants
• Seizure medications
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Narcotic pain relievers
• Antipsychotics
• Lung inhalers
• Blood pressure medications
• Heart medications
• Acne medications
• Anti-nausea medications
• Antibiotics
• Diabetes medications
• Blood thinners
• Statins
• Rheumatoid arthritis medications
• Thyroid medications
• Stimulants
Additionally certain herbs can affect dental health, and some of them cause side effects. Ginkgo biloba, for example, can reduce clotting and result in bleeding gums. If we know ahead of time that you're taking this herb, then we'll know why your gums are bleeding during your treatment.
By the way the use of some herbal supplements has been reported to be associated with oral manifestations, including aphthous ulcers, lip and tongue irritation, and swelling with feverfew; gingival bleeding with feverfew, garlic, goldenseal and ginkgo; tongue numbness with Echinacea; xerostomia (dry mouth) with St. John's wort; oral and lingual dyskinesia (involuntary and discoordinated muscle movements) with kava; and salivation with yohimbe.
When you keep us informed about your health, we can tell you how medications and herbs you may be using affect your dental health.
