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You and your dentist are essential partners in making sure you have the best dental care. You do your part by eating a tooth-healthy diet, brushing and flossing as recommended, and seeing the doctor regularly for checkups and cleanings.
And one more essential step you can take for your dental health? Let the doctor know which prescriptions and over the counter medications you’re taking.
We’ve all grown used to hearing “Possible side effects include . . .” at the end of every pharmaceutical commercial. That’s because those unintended side effects can affect our health in any number of unexpected ways—and this includes oral health.
For example, a common side effect of many medications is xerostomia, or “dry mouth.” Because saliva helps keep our teeth and gums healthy by washing away food particles and oral bacteria and by reducing acidity in the mouth, a reduction in saliva production means a greater risk of cavities, gum disease, oral infections, denture discomfort, and bad breath.
Knowing a patient is taking one of the hundreds of medications which cause xerostomia allows the doctor to both monitor the condition and suggest the most effective treatment options to control unpleasant symptoms.
Medications can cause not only dry mouth, but excessive gum tissue growth, oral sores, tooth discoloration, and changes in taste, among other side effects, so knowing which medications you’re taking can provide essential information for the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.
Medication might be needed for your dental treatment. Because certain drugs, supplements, and even some vitamins and foods can affect the way our bodies metabolize, absorb, and respond to other medications, we need to know which medicines you’re taking to arrive at your best treatment options.
It’s important for the doctor to know if any of your medications will affect standard treatments.
Anticoagulants, for example, are a necessary medication for preventing blood clots from forming, and are often prescribed for certain heart conditions, after joint replacement surgery, or for anyone at risk for developing blood clots. Because these medications prevent the blood from clotting, it’s important to let us know if you are taking such drugs before any kind of oral surgery.
If needed, the doctor can work with you and your doctor to create a treatment plan which will be safe, effective, and designed to work with any of your medications. You should never discontinue taking your prescribed medications before dental work without medical approval, as this can be dangerous.
We need the most up to date information about your health to provide you with the best care possible. Knowing which medications you take and why you take them can help us:
Your prescriptions, over the counter medications, and even herbal supplements and vitamins are essential information. It’s a good idea to make a list before your next appointment at our Lincoln, Nebraska office so you have specific medications and their dosages at hand. It’s one small—but vital—step you can take to work with the doctor for your best dental health!
Dr. Robin Post graduated from Southeast Community College’s Dental Assisting Program and began her dental career in 1989. Following three years of full-time work, she pursued her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the UNMC College of Dentistry, graduating in 1998. Practicing in Lincoln, Nebraska, Dr. Post is dedicated to lifelong learning and sharing her knowledge to promote optimal oral health. She is passionate about helping patients achieve healthy, lasting smiles in a caring and supportive environment.
Dr. Chris Post transitioned to dentistry from a previous career in law, driven by a genuine desire to help others. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the UNMC College of Dentistry in 2009 and has since dedicated himself to providing compassionate, patient-focused care. Known for his commitment to enhancing oral health, Dr. Post strives to make a positive impact in each patient’s life through quality dental care and a supportive approach.