Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, painkillers, diuretics and even radiation therapy for cancer can cause the salivary glands to reduce saliva production in the mouth. Saliva controls the number of bacteria and fungi in the mouth and help wash away any remaining particles of food after eating or drinking.

Medications can have various negative effects on the oral cavity. Some common effects include dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and other oral health issues, as well as changes in taste and an increase in plaque and tartar build-up. Certain medications can also cause inflammation or discoloration of the gums and tongue. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider or dentist about any potential oral side effects of any medications you are taking. They may be able to recommend ways to mitigate these effects or suggest alternative medications.

Commonly used medications & the negative effects on the oral cavity:

Antihistamines – which are commonly used to treat allergies, can cause dry mouth, which can then lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and infection.

Decongestants, which are used to relieve nasal congestion, can also cause dry mouth and a change in taste.

Antidepressants – such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can cause dry mouth and changes in taste, as well as an increased risk of oral infections.

Painkillers, such as opioids, can also cause dry mouth and may lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Diuretics – which are used to remove excess fluid from the body, can cause dry mouth and an increased risk of tooth decay.

Radiation therapy for cancer – can also affect the oral cavity, causing dry mouth, changes in taste, and an increased risk of tooth decay and infection. It is important for individuals undergoing radiation therapy to maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups.

As you can see, many medications can have a significant impact on oral health. It is important to inform your dentist or dental hygienist of any medications you are taking when you have a dental examination / dental check-up, as they can help monitor any potential oral side effects and make recommendations for maintaining your oral health.

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes at a time. Use a very soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three to four months. We suggest to change your toothbrush with each new season. It is an easy way of remembering when you last changed it.

2. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gumline.

3. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

4. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.

5. Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products, as they increase your risk of oral cancer and other health problems.

6. Visit your dentist and dental hygienist regularly for dental check-ups / dental examinations and cleanings. It’s important to have a professional cleaning to remove tartar and plaque that can’t be removed by regular brushing and flossing.

7. Wear a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth at night.

8. Consider using dental products such as water picks or interproximal brushes to help reach and clean hard-to-reach areas.

It’s important to remember that maintaining good oral hygiene is a lifelong commitment that requires daily care and regular dental check-ups.

To prevent tooth decay and cavities, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly and limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks. It is also important to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with a dentist or dental hygienist.

If a cavity does develop, it can be treated by a dentist through a filling or crown. In more severe cases, a root canal or tooth extraction may be required. Fluoride treatments can also be used to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent future decay.

Visit your dentist regularly so any problems can be treated immediately. Once caries is through the dentin, the layer of tooth under the enamel, a filling / dental restoration is needed.

You can avoid this by visiting your dentist regularly.

To brush your teeth properly, follow these steps:

1. Wet your toothbrush and add toothpaste.

2. Hold your toothbrush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

3. Use gentle circular motions to brush the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth.

4. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

5. Spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth and toothbrush with water.

6. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.

For good dental health it’s also important to floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.

For most people a visit to your dentist or dental hygienist every 6 months for cleaning is a must. Book your dental appointment today.

To brush your teeth properly, follow these steps:

1. Wet your toothbrush and add toothpaste.

2. Hold your toothbrush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

3. Use gentle circular motions to brush the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth.

4. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

5. Spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth and toothbrush with water.

6. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.

It’s also important to floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.

For most people a visit to your dentist or dental hygienist every 6 months for cleaning is a must.