Let’s explore the use of drugs and healthy teeth.
Many drugs, both prescription and illegal, can cause tooth damage.
Estimates suggest that about 40 per cent of people take at least one type of medicine that could cause tooth damage. Healthy teeth and gums depend on good oral hygiene, a low sugar diet, healthy saliva and regular visits to the dentist.
A child’s permanent teeth start to form in the jawbones soon after birth. These developing teeth are vulnerable to certain substances including:
Tetracycline – this antibiotic can tint permanent teeth a yellowish or brownish colour. (Fortunately, this is now a commonly known fact and tetracycline is no longer prescribed in children for this reason)
Fluoride – reportedly strengthens teeth and is commonly added to water supplies and toothpaste. However, excessive amounts of fluoride can cause white or discoloured spots to form on developing permanent teeth. This is called fluorosis. Young children who routinely swallow fluoridated toothpaste are at increased risk.
Saliva protects your teeth
Many drugs, both legal and illegal, reduce the flow of saliva and cause a condition called ‘dry mouth’. Dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay. This is because of saliva:
Medications can cause tooth damage and can affect gums
Some medications, including prescription drugs and over-the-counter preparations, can damage your teeth. Medications can cause gum problems such as inflammation, bleeding or ulceration. Diseased gums can lead to other dental problems including tooth loss.
Some of these medications include:
Alcohol and smoking can affect teeth and gums
Regular intake of alcohol can cause a dry mouth and tooth damage as most alcohols are acidic. Smoking is associated with an increased rate of gum problems as well as an increased risk of cancers, including oral cancer.
Illegal drugs can affect teeth and gums
The regular use of illegal drugs can cause significant tooth damage. Drugs that carry a high risk to your oral health include:
Treatment of Teeth Issues Due To Drugs
Professional treatment depends on the particular drug and its effects on your teeth and gums, but may include some of the following:
If a medicine is causing your dental health problems, the dentist may suggest that you talk to your doctor about adjusting the dose or method of delivery.
Mouthwashes and gels which help protect from decay and dry mouth
Decayed teeth will need dental fillings and perhaps restorative work such as crowns.
Badly decayed teeth may need to be removed (extracted). Partial dentures, dental implants or full dentures may be recommended.
The dentist can carefully trim gum tissue affected by gingival hyperplasia.
The dentist can recommend various treatments (such as veneers) that can improve the look of your mouth and smile.
Rachel is the founder and principal dentist at Evolve Dental Healing with over 30 years experience, practising holistically since 2001. Not your typical dentist, Rachel is a passionate opinion leader, challenging convention to empower people to make better dental and health choices, helping thousands to have healthy natural smiles. A respected writer and presenter on holistic dentistry, health and wellness it is Rachel’s mission to revolutionise the way people look at their dental health.
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Kenmore Queensland 4069
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Email: info@evolvedental.com.au
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References and Citations Mercury & Amalgam Fillings