Some medications may have an adverse effect on your teeth and oral health. For instance, a condition known as dry mouth is associated with medications such as diuretics, pain killers, antihistamines, and decongestants. These medications have been found to reduce saliva production in some patients’ mouths. Saliva is important because it helps rinse the mouth of bacteria and other harmful materials that cause cavities. When saliva production drops, you are more susceptible to plaque build-up.
Dry mouth is also common in patients who suffer from eating disorders, diabetes, age-related conditions, and compromised immune systems. Patients who commonly chew tobacco or eat garlic are also at a higher risk for dry mouth.
Dry mouth has been linked to several other problems, including bad breath and burning tongue syndrome, a condition caused by a lack of moisture on the tongue itself.
If you are not suffering from a medical condition that causes dry mouth, your dry mouth can by relieved by chewing sugarless gum and sipping water often. It is also important to regularly attend your dental check-ups and practice good oral hygiene at home.