Women's Medications: The Dental Connection!

Women using medication to treat a variety of medical conditions are often unaware of the potential side effects.  One common side effect of the medications such as blood pressure medication, birth control pills, antidepressants, and cancer treatments is a dry mouth.

A dry mouth can lead to many undesirable side effects in the oral cavity including periodontal disease and a high rate of decay.  Many women who have not had a cavity in years will return for their routine exam and suddenly be plagued with a multitude of cavities around crowns and at the gum line, or suddenly have active periodontal disease.  And, the only thing that the patient may have changed in the past six months is a new medication.

Saliva washes away bacteria and cleans the oral cavity, and when salivary flow is diminished, harmful bacteria can flourish in the mouth leading to decay and gum disease.  Many medications can reduce the flow of saliva without the patient even realizing the side effect.  Birth control pills can also lead to a higher risk of inflammation and bleeding gums.  Patients undergoing cancer treatments, especially radiation to the head and neck region, can experience a greatly heightened risk of oral complications due to the possibility of damage to the salivary glands.

Although the benefits of these medications outweigh the risks associated with a dry mouth, it is very important to be aware of the potential unintended side effects.  There are many different treatments and approaches for a dry mouth ranging from over the counter remedies to prescription alternatives.

If you suffer from a dry mouth, have other dental questions, or are simply in need of a dental appointment, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,
DRT