Collaborative post¦ Unfortunately, for the majority of us, oral health is an afterthought. This is evident from the fact that 68.5 million American adults do not have dental insurance. One might go, “What’s the big deal in skipping a few dental checkups?” but according to research, a healthy mouth is closely linked to a healthy life.
The American Dental Association (ADA) states that apart from tooth loss, periodontal (gum) diseases may increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
The solution isn’t as simple as avoiding candies and sodas. Sugary and acidic foods are not the only culprits behind oral health deterioration. A lot of prescribed medications can also trigger serious dental issues. The most unfortunate part is that many people remain unaware of these side effects until significant damage has already been done.
Awareness is the first step toward prevention. Find out how common medications might be affecting your teeth and what you can do to protect your oral health.
Pain Management Medications and Dental Complications
Individuals dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis or back injuries have a hard time managing daily activities due to persistent pain. While physiotherapy and yoga can provide some relief, medication is often necessary to lead a functional life.
However, as most of us are already aware, pain relief medicines are not risk-free. Certain medications can directly or indirectly affect oral health. Opioids, in particular, are tricky. While they offer effective pain relief, their misuse can spiral into dependence and addiction.
According to a report by the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 3.8% of the American population struggles with opioid abuse every year.
A lot of times, it becomes necessary to prescribe anti-opioid treatments like Suboxone to help the patient manage withdrawal symptoms and curb cravings. Suboxone contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, designed to ease withdrawal without delivering the intense high associated with traditional opioids.
But here’s the catch- Suboxone is associated with an increased risk of dental decay, oral infections, and other dental injuries. The culprit lies in Suboxone’s film formulation, which, when dissolved in the mouth, creates an acidic environment that can erode enamel over time.
The Controversy Surrounding Suboxone
These risks have led to numerous lawsuits against Indivior – the manufacturer of Suboxone. The lawsuits claim that the manufacturer failed to properly warn about the potential risks of tooth decay to the users.
TorHoerman Law explains that the growing number of Suboxone tooth decay claims has prompted the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) to take action. As a result, these cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL).
If you’ve experienced dental damage due to prescribed Suboxone use, you may be eligible to file a Suboxone dental lawsuit against the pharmaceutical company. For a detailed assessment of your case, consult a personal injury lawyer who specializes in Suboxone lawsuits.
These legal professionals can evaluate the extent of your dental injuries, determine if you qualify for compensation, and help you navigate the complex litigation process.
Antihistamines and Tooth Discoloration
While antihistamines (like Benadryl) provide welcome relief from allergies and cold symptoms, prolonged use can contribute to tooth discoloration over time through several mechanisms.
The primary culprit is the significant drying effect antihistamines have on your mouth. By reducing saliva production, these medications inadvertently eliminate your body’s natural defense against staining. With reduced saliva flow, the staining agents in food remain in contact with your teeth longer, gradually altering their appearance.
There’s also a behavioral component to consider. The drowsiness that accompanies many antihistamines can impact your oral hygiene routine. After taking these medications, you might feel too tired to thoroughly brush and floss before bed—exactly when your teeth need cleaning most.
This combination of physiological and behavioral effects creates the perfect conditions for discoloration to develop.
To combat this, stay hydrated, chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva flow, and maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine, even when feeling sluggish. Consider using a fluoride rinse or whitening toothpaste to help reduce staining.
If discoloration becomes noticeable or persistent, consult a dentist for professional cleaning or treatment options. Regular dental checkups will also help catch any underlying issues before they worsen.
How Antidepressants Can Affect Oral Health
Antidepressants like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have helped millions manage depression and anxiety disorders. However, these medications often come with an unwelcome side effect that many patients aren’t warned about: their impact on oral health.
SSRIs and TCAs can significantly reduce saliva production, leading to chronic dry mouth. Saliva is essential for neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and preventing bacterial growth. Without enough of it, your mouth becomes the perfect environment for cavities and gum disease to develop.
To counter these side effects:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Use alcohol-free mouthwashes specifically designed for dry mouth
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
- Schedule more frequent dental checkups
- Switch to fluoride toothpaste
Your Medication Shouldn’t Cost You Your Smile
Oral health is not something you should overlook while managing other health conditions. If you are on long-term medications and experiencing dental issues, start taking better care of your mouth from today.
If the problems persist despite your best efforts, visit your dentist and discuss your medications—there may be alternatives with fewer oral side effects.
Cover photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/dentist-odontology-orthodontics-4012697