How Do Drugs Affect Dental Health?

Drugs affect dental health in many different ways. An increase in dry mouth, tooth stains, yeast overgrowth and mouth sores are some of the health issues experienced by taking a variety of prescription medications. Older adults experience these symptoms more significantly because they tend to take higher doses.  

The effect of drugs on dental health are numerous. In general, the health of the mouth and the rest of the body are interrelated. As the number of prescription medications increases, so do dental symptoms. Patients who experience a larger number of dental and gum health problems should consult with their doctors about a possible change or adjustment in their medications.

One of the largest symptoms associated with prescription medication is the prevalence of dry mouth. The list of drugs that cause this symptom is long; antidepressants, decongestants, anti-anxiety meds and diuretics are just a few categories of drugs that increase dry mouth symptoms. An excessively dry mouth can increases the chances that a person will experience greater gum disease and tooth decay.

Some medications can lead to a greater degree of yeast growth in the mouth, also known as thrush. Antibiotics, when combined with steroid drugs, can lead to this problem. An increase in gum tissue can also occur as a result of medications. Seizure medications and those that block calcium channels lead to thrush.

Other experiences include greater staining of the teeth and bone tissue death. Tetracycline, when taken by children, can increase the incidence of tooth staining. Tranquilizers and oral contraceptives are other drugs with the same side effects. In regard to bone tissue death, intravenous medications, such as bisphosphonates, taken by cancer patients can lead to this problem.