It’s amazing to learn about all of the things that can affect your oral health. Whether it be a positive or negative affect, it’s important to learn about the different things in your life that can have an impact on your oral health. Something that can alter your oral health is the medication you are taking. This is especially true for those with asthma, as albuterol is known to take a toll on your gums and teeth. It does so by breaking down the gum tissue in your mouth, causing gum disease and other problems. How else can medications affect your oral health?

• Antidepressants and antihistamines, as well as pain killers, are known to cause dry mouth, which can increase your risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and thrush.
• Taking tranquilizers and oral contraceptives can stain your teeth, making them look dirty and unkempt. Yellowing of the teeth is a common side effect of these drugs.
• A commonly known side effect of taking anti-seizure medication is overgrowth of gum tissue.
• When taking steroids and or antibiotics, you are at risk for getting thrush. Which is a yeast infection of the mouth.
• Medication prescribed for osteoporosis, as well as cancer treatment drugs, can cause the bone tissue in your mouth to die off. This is a detrimental toll that medication can take on your mouth.

If you’re currently taking any form of the above listed medications, it’s important to talk to your dentist about your options. Consider asking about what alternatives there might be, or if there are ways to combat these side effects. If you’re in need of quality dental care, call the professionals at Schweichler Dental Care, and get an appointment today.