Medications and Dry Mouth
Both aging and medication use often result in a reduced salivary flow. Many medications prescribed have the side effect of dry mouth, and when multiple medications are taken there can be an additive effect with even more salivary problems. The result of this reduced moisture in the mouth can be increased decay, especially at the roots of teeth. I have seen patients develop numerous cavities in a matter of months after a change or increase in medication. We ask about medication use in our medical history updates and encourage patients to tell us if they have symptoms of dry mouth.
To treat this problem, we recommend Biotene Products, an over the counter group of medicines ( rinse, toothpaste, gum) that help moisturize the mouth and help prevent new decay, Fluoride treatments, are also an important part of treatment (both in the office and special home care products) as they can strengthen the tooth structure, making teeth more resistant to decay.
