When it comes to taking care of your oral health, it seems there are more substances in the world that can cause your teeth and gums harm than not. Both over-the-counter and prescription medicines, for example, can have seriously detrimental effects on your mouth. Also in that category are vitamins, minerals, and herbal preparations.
Typical problems that you may encounter with your oral health and the use of medicines include
- Inflammation
- Diseased gums
- Bleeding
- Ulcerations
- Dry mouth
- Tooth enamel issues
- Mouth infections
- Tooth decay
Common Over-the-Counter Medications
There are many over-the-counter medications that are commonly used in households that can lead to these oral health issues. The more medications you consume on a regular basis, the more they can lead towards gum disease. This can open doors for multiple dental problems, including tooth loss.
Use caution when taking these medications for an extended period
- Antihistamines
- Antihypertensives
- Aspirin (Never chew an aspirin because it is acidic and can lead to enamel issue. You should always swallow aspirin with waters.)
- Asthma medications
- Chemotherapy medications
- Immunosuppressive medications
- Oral contraceptives
- Syrups (Always brush your teeth after using a syrup as the sugars in them can lead to tooth decay.)
Antibiotics & Your Oral Health
Antibiotics can be another struggle when it comes to your oral health. At some point or another, most people are put on antibiotics to treat illnesses and diseases. Long-term use of antibiotics and improper care of your teeth while on them can lead to oral health concerns.
Oral thrush is one of the most common concerns when it comes to prolonged use of antibiotics. Oral thrush is a fungal infection that can occur on the tongue and inner cheeks. It is commonly associated with immune deficiencies or the use of steroid spray for asthma. Oral thrush is easily treated with an antifungal medicine but can be irritating and uncomfortable for the patient.
Consult Your Medical Professionals
When in doubt about your medications, speak with your medical professionals about over-the-counter and antibiotic medicines that you take on a regular basis. Your dentist, pharmacist, and general practitioner can help you determine whether the medications you are on will have detrimental side effects.
At The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park, we encourage our patients to let us know when they are having oral health issues and to disclose any medications so that we can help determine if they are at the root of the issues. Speak with your dentist today if you have concerns about medicine and your oral health!
