Dr. Urban on Today’s Dentistry/Your Medications and Dentistry

When you visit your dentist you have to fill out a health questionnaire and current medications list. It seems redundant and seemingly remote that medications should interfere with your dental visit. Why is this important?

My intention with this article is not to list all the drug interactions with dental disease and dental restorations. I intend to list the most common problems and consequences and to let you know that you should tell your dentist and hygienist your most current medical status.

Xerostomia or dry mouth occurs when the salivary output becomes diminished, usually through age or side effects of medications. Dry mouth can become especially uncomfortable when a removable bridge or denture has to be worn. If dry mouth can be tied to a new prescription then the prescription can be changed. If this is impossible then extra effort is made to enhance salivary output by using over-the-counter salivary stimulants or chewing gums. The Biotene company has many products that fit this description. Chewing gums with Xylitol help prevent the high incidence of decay in people with dry mouth.

Cardiac and hypertension medications present different problems. Your dentist should know if there is a need to limit the use of a local anesthetic that contains a vasopressor. Vasopressors are commonly used with anesthetics let the numb effect linger longer. Sedation may be necessary for more lengthy dental visits or for those who are anxious.

Warfarin or Coumadin is given for people who need anti-clotting medication to prevent thrombosis. Current thinking is that there is little (short of a lot of dental surgery) that is done in the dental office that would require cessation of this medication several days prior to dental work. Oral surgery may require going off the medication. This should be done with the advice of the cardiologist.

Antihypertensive drug therapy can lead to a dry sore mouth or lichenoid infection. These conditions can be treated, but dentists should be aware of the cause.

Diabetes treatment consists of maintaining metabolic control of blood glucose levels. Oral complications include poor response to the bacteria that cause periodontal disease., candidiasis (fungus infection), poor wound healing, dry mouth and increased decay at the gum line. Your dentist should know if you are a controlled diabetic.

Allergies to drugs are also common. If you suspect that an allergic reaction to medication has occurred in your life, let your dentist know. For instance there are many other antibiotics that can be administered for those who are allergic to penicillin. If you have aspirin or anti-inflammatory NSAID sensitivity, make your dental office aware.

Your dentist may have to contact your physician before dental work is initiated. Make sure you have all the necessary phone numbers available. Your dental office is there to help you have a problem free visit.
For answers to your dental questions, contact

Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
DrDouglasUrban.com