We are committed to continuously improving access to our goods and services by individuals with disabilities. This website is currently being updated to enhance the usability and experience for persons with disabilities. If you are unable to use any aspect of this website because of a disability, please call 9786678292 and we will provide you with prompt personalized assistance.

Call Us 978.667.8292

Blog

Request an Appointment

To book an appointment please call us at 978.667.8292 and we'll be happy to assist you!

What Medication Can Do to Your Oral Health

While taking certain medications can help treat disease and lead to better overall health, some medications can harm your teeth and gums.

The side effects of some medications can lead to the following oral health issues:

Abnormal bleeding

Some medications such as heparin or warfarin are used to thin blood. Taking these drugs means that your blood does not clot normally, this can be good for patients who are trying to prevent stroke or heart disease, but can cause issues during oral surgery or treatment for periodontal disease. After oral surgery, you need blood clots to prevent dry socket and other complications, without clots you may experience a lot of pain.

Talk to your dentist about the medications you are taking before deciding on a treatment or surgery.

Soft-tissue reactions

Some medications may cause sores in the mouth, inflammation, or discoloration of the soft tissues, such as gums. If you are on blood pressure medication, oral contraceptives, or chemotherapeutic agents, talk to your dentist about oral health treatment.

Dry mouth

Many medications can cause dry mouth. Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants and painkillers can cause dry mouth, as well as prescription medications such as antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and high blood pressure medications.

Dry mouth can cause cavities and decay because there is not enough saliva in the mouth to wash away bacteria. Instead, the acid and bacteria in the mouth can run rampant and cause decay.

Always make sure to tell your dentist about the medications that you are on and discuss side effects with them. When dentists know your full health history, they can better consider treatment options.

Source

978.667.8292

8 Tower Farm Rd | Billerica, MA 01821 | 978.667.8292

Request an Appointment
To book an appointment please call us at 978.667.8292 and we'll be happy to assist you!

Terms and Conditions

Here at Billerica Dental Associates, we work diligently to protect our patient's rights and privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what HIPAA has identified as electronically protected information (ePHI). Unfortunately, despite the best efforts we make or take, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the box, and electronically making an appointment, you understand that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Billerica Dental Associates will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may not illegally intercept this communication. As a result of continuing, you are sending this transmission and accepting the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. As an alternative, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

Disclaimer

The information presented here is not intended or implied to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should be used for informational purposes only.