Medications and what they can mean for your mouth

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
• Chewable or gummy 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)

Enamel stains

Your pearly whites may appear 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

What do I do if medications are affecting my oral health?

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