When you think of ways to maintain your oral hygiene, you probably think about brushing your teeth, flossing and seeing your dental hygienist on a regular basis. However, there are other factors (like certain medications) that can negatively impact your good dental habits. Here’s a few common medications in your medicine cabinet that could be impacting your oral health.
Antihistamines
Many people manage seasonal allergies, hives or motion sickness symptoms with antihistamines. Unfortunately, one side effect of these medications is reduced saliva production. This can lead to dry mouth which increases the risk of gum problems and cavities.
First-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and dimenhydrinate (Gravol) are more likely to cause dry mouth than second-generation antihistamines like cetirizine (Reactine) or loratadine (Claritin).
Oral Contraceptives
While oral contraceptives (commonly referred to as birth control pills) were developed to prevent pregnancy. They’re also used to manage painful periods, acne, menstrual migraines and PMS.
One side effect that isn’t always talked about is inflamed gums. The inflammation is caused by an exaggerated reaction to the toxins produced from plaque. Newer forms of birth control pills with a lower concentration of hormones can lessen that reaction to plaque, preventing gum inflammation.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are an important tool in managing mental health conditions and chronic pain. Like antihistamines, they can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. This is most common with tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline but can also occur when taking other antidepressants.
Asthma Medications
Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases in Canada, with over 4.6 million people affected. The most common treatments for asthma are inhalers or nebulizer medications that allow people to breathe in their medicine for quick relief.
Inhalers, unlike pills or capsules, make it impossible to avoid contact with the teeth and tissue inside the mouth, which increases the risk for cavities, tooth erosion, gum disease, and oral thrush.
Managing Side Effects
These medications all serve important purposes and help us live happy and healthy lives. Unfortunately, many of them also cause dry mouth—but there are easy ways to manage it. You can try sipping water regularly, using a humidifier at night, and chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva production.
If you’re experiencing side effects that are impacting your oral health, speak to your doctor, pharmacist or contact our dental professionals at Kildonan Crossing Dental Centre for personalized advice based on your dental history. Visit us in Transcona, at the corner of Lagimodiere Boulevard and Regent Avenue. We look forward to seeing you!