what kind of medical treatment can damage teeth?

• Antidepressants – this range of medicines can cause dry mouth and increase the risk of tooth decay.
• Antihistamines – can cause dry mouth and an increased risk of gum problems.
• Antihypertensives (taken to reduce blood pressure) – can lead to an increased risk of gum swelling and overgrowth.
• Aspirin – chewing aspirin can directly damage the tooth enamel, as aspirin is acidic. Always take aspirin strictly as directed. ...
• Asthma medications – some asthma medications are highly acidic and can dissolve tooth enamel if used regularly over a long period of time.
Chemotherapy medications – can cause a dry mouth and lead to an increased risk of gum problems and oral inflammation.
Immunosuppressive medications – can lead to an increased risk of gum problems and mouth infections.
Oral contraceptives – can lead to an increased risk of gum problems.
Syrups – medicated syrups can contain hidden sugars which may increase the risk of tooth decay if teeth are not brushed after these syrups are taken.
Bisphosphonates (for osteoporosis) and monoclonal antibodies such as denosumab (for bone problems) – can cause severe problems in the jaw bones, such as non-healing painful ulcers.
Antibiotics – large or prolonged dosages of antibiotics can cause oral thrush.

Full Answer

How do dentists treat decay on teeth?

The dentist may apply topical fluoride to the surface of your teeth. Fluoride tablets or mouthwashes may be recommended for use at home. Decayed teeth will need dental fillings and perhaps restorative work such as crowns. Badly decayed teeth may need to be removed.

How can I protect my teeth from medications I take?

Clean your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. If your medication is acidic, rinse your mouth with water after taking it and avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes. Visit your dentist at least once or twice a year. Ask your doctor, dentist and pharmacist about the medicines you take and if they may affect your dental health.

Can medications damage your teeth?

Some medications, including prescription 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.

What dental treatments are covered by health insurance?

Dental Treatments that Health Insurance Might Cover 1 Medically Necessary Dental Services. Health insurance will cover specific dental procedures when medically necessary, which is always a judgment call made by the claims adjuster. 2 Oral Surgery Covered by Medical. ... 3 Dental Partially Covered by Medical. ...

Can medicine mess up teeth?

Some medications, including prescription and over-the-counter preparations, can damage your teeth. Medications can cause gum problems such as inflammation, bleeding or ulcers. Diseased gums can lead to other dental problems, including tooth loss.

What medical conditions cause dental problems?

From your heart and lungs to your immune system, be aware of these 10 health conditions linked to tooth and gum disease.High Blood Pressure. ... Heart Disease. ... Diabetes. ... Long-Term Kidney Disease. ... Lung Disease. ... Obesity. ... Osteoporosis. ... Rheumatoid Arthritis.

What causes the most damage to teeth?

Cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. Cavities, also called tooth decay or caries, are caused by a combination of factors, including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugary drinks and not cleaning your teeth well.

What medications cause bone loss in teeth?

Use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, and antiepileptic drugs, can lead to the loss of bone that supports your teeth. Bisphosphonates, drugs used to treat osteoporosis, can sometimes cause a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jawbone, which results in destruction of the jawbone.

Why are my teeth suddenly decaying?

Tooth decay can occur when acid is produced from plaque, which builds up on your teeth. If plaque is allowed to build up, it can lead to further problems, such as dental caries (holes in the teeth), gum disease or dental abscesses, which are collections of pus at the end of the teeth or in the gums.

What drugs cause rapid tooth decay?

Methamphetamine – also called ice, crystal meth, glass, shards or puff. This drug causes severe tooth decay in a very short time. The term 'meth mouth' is used to describe the extensive damage typically caused by this drug. Methamphetamine is highly acidic and attacks tooth enamel.

How do you know if your enamel is damaged?

As the enamel continues to erode, your teeth might turn a gray or yellowish color. If your teeth change shape, it's a good indicator that you have enamel damage. Your teeth may begin to appear rounded, develop ridges, and often the gaps between teeth will become more substantial.

What happens when enamel is gone?

Worn and missing enamel leaves your teeth more susceptible to cavities and decay. Small cavities are no big deal, but if left to grow and fester, they can lead to infections such as painful tooth abscesses. Worn enamel also impacts the appearance of your smile.

Can antibiotics cause tooth decay?

Anyone of this family of antibiotics can cause brown striping on the enamel of your teeth. Tetracycline should be avoided in pregnant women and children as it can affect the tooth enamel in infants and young children, weakening tooth enamel, inducing susceptibility to tooth decay.

Can tooth bone loss be reversed?

On its own, bone loss cannot be reversed. Left untreated, the bone in your jaw and around your teeth will continue to resorb, leading to more tooth loss, disease, and pain.

How to treat dry mouth and tooth decay?

If you take regular pain medication, you can help curb dry mouth and consequential tooth decay by following these regiments: Increase your daily water intake by drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water a day. Brush your teeth twice a day. Go for regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Use a moisturizing mouth spray.

What is the best treatment for dry mouth?

Antihistamines block histamine receptors to prevent allergic reactions. However, this same effect happens in other areas of the body, including the mouth and tongue. Antihistamines block the release of saliva, which results in dry mouth.⁶. Decongestants are another common treatment for allergies and the common cold which can also create dry mouth. ...

How to get rid of bad breath?

Don’t use tobacco products. Cut back on caffeinated and dehydrating drinks like coffee, tea, and alcohol. Try a hydrating mouth rinse. For the bad breath which often accompanies dry mouth, you may want to try chewing on any of the following herbs: parsley, aniseed, fennel or rosemary.

What happens if your mouth is dry?

Dry mouth is a common factor, which can lead to tooth decay and infection.³. Drying irritates the soft tissues in your mouth, which can make them inflamed and heighten your risk for infection. Saliva plays a big role in protecting your teeth from bacteria. So when your mouth is dry, your risk for infection and tooth decay is increased.

What is the best treatment for high blood pressure?

Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, heart rhythmic medications and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are all commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure. These medications all share the side effect of dry mouth, increasing your chances of developing tooth decay.⁸.

Can antacids cause cavities?

Antacids also may contain sugar or other tooth-damaging artificial sweeteners. Chewable antacids are especially dangerous to your teeth, as they can get stuck between your teeth and after prolonged exposure, can result in cavities.

Can you brush your teeth after taking an antacid?

When you do reach for the antacids to treat heartburn or acid reflux, find a sugar-free option. Be sure to brush your teeth after taking an antacid to help reduce any damaging effects. To minimize the damage of acid reflux on your teeth, try to avoid foods that trigger heartburn and acid reflux, such as the following:

What is the best treatment for decayed teeth?

Fluoride strengthens teeth and reduces the risk of decay. The dentist may apply topical fluoride to the surface of your teeth. Fluoride tablets or mouthwashes may be recommended for use at home. Decayed teeth will need dental fillings and perhaps restorative work such as crowns.

Why does dry mouth cause tooth decay?

Dry mouth significantly increases the risk of tooth decay. This is because saliva : reduces the population of bacteria in the mouth. neutralises mouth acids that cause tooth decay.

What medications cause saliva to decrease?

Some examples include: antidepressants, diuretics (water pills), antihistamines, decongestants, medications for Parkinson’s disease, blood pressure tablets (betablockers) and inhalers.

What is the condition called when you have a taste in your mouth?

This condition is called ‘gingival hyperplasia’ . Medications linked to an increased risk of gingival hyperplasia include epilepsy medications, cyclosporin (organ transplant rejection drug), some blood pressure medications and calcium channel blockers. Medications can also alter the taste in the mouth.

What antibiotics can make teeth yellow?

tetracycline – this antibiotic can give permanent teeth a yellowish or brownish colour. fluoride – this 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.

How to get saliva out of your mouth?

Chew sugar-free gum to encourage a steady flow of saliva. Pay careful attention to your tooth brushing and flossing habits. Clean your te eth thoroughly at least twice a day. If your medication is acidic, rinse your mouth with water after taking it and avoid brushing your teeth for at least 30 minutes.

Can over the counter medications cause tooth decay?

Many medications cause a condition called ‘dry mouth’, which significantly increases the risk of tooth decay.

Why do teeth decay?

This is because they have high sugar concentration in the blood and this causes an increase in the build-up of the plague. When the plaque builds up for a long time, it will cause the teeth to begin to affect the health of the gums and this can result in the decay of the tooth.

What are the causes of tooth decay?

Below are a few of them and their treatments: 1. Anxiety Disorder. Recent data has shown that Anxiety disorders are amongst the most common mental diseases in the United States.

How many people have tooth decay?

In 2016, a study carried out by The Global Burden of Disease revealed that half of the world's population; about 3.58 billion people were afflicted with tooth decays. What's more, another research embarked on in the United States by the Center for Disease Control showed that 95% of adults between the ages of 40 to 59 were experiencing some sort ...

How to get rid of the plague?

Treatment. Constantly brush and floss your teeth to prevent the build-up of the plague. Ensure that the toothpaste you use contains fluoride this will control the build-up of plague. If you don’t brush regularly, the plaque will build up and harden and then turn into tartar and this is hard to get off.

What to do if you have oral cancer?

When a dentist obtains a positive diagnosis of oral cancer, he/she will most likely recommend a biopsy of the infected area and then go further to suggest chemotherapy and radiation.

Can grinding teeth cause tooth decay?

Basically, when a person who is affiliated with this disorder is experiencing an attack they begin to clench or grind their teeth, which is a sin most people exhibit when under pressure.

Is oral cancer deadly?

Oral Cancer. Oral cancer is a very common but deadly disease when not discovered on time. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that seniors are the worst hit and have the highest mortality rate with regards to oral cancer. Now, one of the major signs of oral cancer asides from gum pain, sores, liaisons, etc. is tooth decay.

Why do dentists need to know about medications?

Having a dry mouth can increase your risk for getting cavities, gum disease, mouth sores, infections and most notably, bad breath. As such, it’s understandable that you want ...

What medications can make you bruise?

There are also certain types of medication that can make you bruise and bleed more easily. Examples include aspirin, ibuprofen, garlic, gingko biloba, ginger and ginseng. If you frequently take such medication, ...

Do medications affect your teeth?

Did you know that there are medications that affect teeth and your overall oral health, causing dry mouth, change the way you taste food, and affect your gums? For this very reason, it’s important that you tell your dentist and dental hygienist about the type of medication you’re taking, how much you’re taking and how often you take them.

Can mouth ulcers be side effects of medication?

4. Mouth ulcers are also known to be a possible side effect of certain types of medication.

What to do if your jaw hurts?

However, if the problem is severe, options include certain dental approaches, therapies and medications to prevent more tooth damage and relieve jaw pain or discomfort. Talk with your dentist or doctor to find out which option may work best for you.

What to do if your dentist suspects you have bruxism?

If your dentist suspects that you have bruxism, he or she tries to determine its cause by asking questions about your general dental health, medications, daily routines and sleep habits.

What to take for bruxism before bed?

In some cases, your doctor may suggest taking a muscle relaxant before bedtime, for a short period of time. Botox injections. Injections of Botox, a form of botulinum toxin, may help some people with severe bruxism who don't respond to other treatments. Medication for anxiety or stress.

What to do if you have bruxism?

If your bruxism seems to be related to major sleep issues, your doctor may recommend a sleep medicine specialist. A sleep medicine specialist can conduct more tests, such as a sleep study that will assess for episodes of teeth grinding and determine if you have sleep apnea or other sleep disorders. If anxiety or other psychological issues seem ...

How to stop bruxism from grinding teeth?

If you grind your teeth because of stress, you may be able to prevent the problem by learning strategies that promote relaxation, such as meditation. If the bruxism is related to anxiety, advice from a licensed therapist or counselor may help.

How to prevent bruxism in children?

Although these methods may prevent or correct the wear to your teeth, they may not stop the bruxism: Splints and mouth guards. These are designed to keep teeth separated to avoid the damage caused by clenching and grinding.

How to help bruxism?

If the bruxism is related to anxiety, advice from a licensed therapist or counselor may help. Behavior change. Once you discover that you have bruxism, you may be able to change the behavior by practicing proper mouth and jaw position. Ask your dentist to show you the best position for your mouth and jaw. Biofeedback.

What to do if you can't get a tooth back in?

If you can't get the tooth back in (don't force it), put it in cold milk or a saltwater solution until you can see a dentist, which should be as soon as possible.

What is the procedure called to replace a chipped tooth?

You'll need a root canal procedure, which involves removing the pulp and replacing it with a plastic filling, called gutta percha. But you don't have to walk around with a crooked smile during this wait-and-see phase. Have your dentist patch the chipped tooth.

Why do you need a root canal after a tooth is knocked out?

Doing so soon after the trauma may help preserve the periodontal ligament tissue. You may still need a root canal because the pulp inside is damaged, but at least you've improved the odds that the tooth will reattach to the jawbone. If it's been knocked badly out of position, the tooth may need to be "splinted.".

What is the layer of enamel?

Inside the enamel is a layer of dentin, a bone-like but porous substance. The dentin is nourished by the inmost layer, called the pulp, a lacy network of nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels.

How to get a tooth out of socket?

Find the tooth and put it back in the socket as soon as possible. If it's dirty, you can gently rinse it off with milk or water. Don't scrape or scrub it. When a tooth is knocked out, it tears the periodontal ligament tissue, some of which will cling to the tooth.

Why is root canal pain free?

Jarshen Lin, a faculty member at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and an expert on the procedure, goes further; he says a root canal should be pain free, because of better anesthetics, powered instruments made of flexible metals, and high-tech imaging equipment that allows the dentist to see inside the tooth.

Can trauma cause tooth pulp to die?

The trauma itself may also cause damage. In either case, you'll have to wait at least a few weeks before the dentist knows for sure whether the pulp is viable. It's a bad sign if the tooth hurts, changes color, or is sensitive to temperature (especially heat); the pulp is probably irreversibly damaged and dying.

What is the name of the treatment for dental infection?

Your dentist may prescribe preventative antibiotics for certain dental services or before the treatment of your dental infection; this is called antibiotic prophylaxis. During certain dental treatments, the bacteria that reside in your mouth may enter the bloodstream, and prophylactic antibiotics can prevent infection.

What is the best treatment for gum disease?

It may be treated with antibiotics like amoxicillin. Erythromycin, tetracycline, or metronidazole are other options if the patient is allergic to penicillin.

Can antibiotics help with tooth abscess?

Tooth abscess antibiotics dosage. A dental abscess won't go away on its own, so it's crucial to seek professional help if you think you may have one. Your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic for tooth abscess treatment if the infection has spread to nearby teeth, your jaw, or other areas.

Can you take doxycycline for a tooth infection?

At that dosage, however, it won't treat bacterial infections. Doxycycline for a tooth infection is not recommended in children under 12 because antibiotics from the tetracycline class can cause permanent tooth staining in children. It's also not suitable for pregnant women.

Can antibiotics save you?

Antibiotics have saved and will save many lives that could have been lost to infection, including in the world of dentistry. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if you have a severe dental infection that can't be treated through other methods like a root canal or extraction.

Can you get antibiotics for tooth infection?

Antibiotics are not available over the counter; you must have a doctor's prescription.

Can you take metronidazole for tooth abscess?

It's also likely one from the penicillin class, including penicillin and amoxicillin. Patients who are allergic to penicillin may be prescribed metronidazole instead for tooth abscess antibiotic treatment . Dental Antibiotics for Tooth Infection and Abscesses: Types and Dosage.

Does insurance pay for gum grafting?

Infections in the gum correlate with heart problems and diabetes. Therefore, medical insurance may sometimes pay for the periodontal examination and treatment if the patient is undergoing a different surgical procedure included in the plan. Gum grafting is a painful surgical procedure for advanced periodontitis.

Does insurance cover jaw surgery?

Jaw Surgery. Your medical insurance might cover corrective (Orthognathic) jaw surgery when medically necessary; the operative procedure treats an illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms. Oral surgeons can perform operations on your jaw for many different reasons, and some fit the coverage criteria exactly, not at all, ...

Does health insurance cover dental procedures?

Health insurance will cover specific dental procedures when medically necessary, which is always a judgment call made by the claims adjuster. The definition may include dental care arising from non-biting accidents, certain diseases, and treatments deemed integral to other services included in the plan.

Does insurance pay for dental implants?

Tooth Implants. Your health insurance might pay for medically necessary dental implants, which are appropriate to evaluating and treating a disease, condition, illness, or injury and is consistent with the applicable standard of care.

Does insurance cover wisdom teeth?

Wisdom Teeth. Your health insurance should cover the cost of impacted wisdom tooth removal because the procedure is often medically necessary. Third molars can cause pain, infection and lead to the development of cysts.

Does insurance cover orthodontic braces?

Orthodontic Braces. Your health insurance might pay for medically necessary orthodontia when the braces prevent, diagnose, or treats an injury, disease, or symptoms. The definition for included braces can vary based on the age of the individual requiring treatment and the procedure step.