May 23, 2005

By: Sophie Griffin
Website: http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com

Oral Health Tip – Medications Can Cause Dental Problems

When people go to their doctor and have a medication prescribed for a particular condition, the thought that a new medicine might have an adverse affect on dental health most likely never crosses the mind. Sometimes it’s possible that even certain physicians aren’t aware of the affect certain medications can have on mouth and tooth health. When a doctor prescribes medication or a person purchases an over-the-counter medicine, it is usually to improve or maintain an individual’s wellbeing. To avoid any harmful damage to the teeth and gums, a valuable oral health tip would be to inform a dentist of any new medications that are being taken and ask about health risks for the mouth.

Oral health tips can be found all over in advertisements and on product boxes that provide helpful information on oral care. Unfortunately, one mouth tip that is not common that can affect both the teeth and the gums is to warn people about the possible oral side effects from medications like Cardizem and Procardia. Many individuals who take something called a Calcium channel blocker for angina and high blood pressure end up with gum enlargement, and should have tips or hints to deal with the complications. Gum enlargement can create small sacks around each tooth that allows bacteria to hide and grow. It can result in loosing teeth or potential infections. Drugs prescribed for other conditions are also known to cause oral problems as well.

Another hint about maintaining a healthy mouth is to be aware of the ingredients in over-the-counter medications. Many remedies like cough lozenges or chewable antacid pills are high in sugar and can promote tooth decay. The best tips to deal with possible oral care problems due to medications are to become educated about the affects certain medicines can have on teeth and visit the dentist regularly in order to prevent any potential complications.

Author Notes:

Sophie Griffin contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com.  She has recently graduated from college, and is now studying as a dental hygenists. Sophie plans to continue her career in dental sales, specializing