Dentists are often the first to diagnose and treat
oral reactions, especially since many reactions occur with any
medications used in excess, or in combinations with other drugs, such as
vitamins and herbs, according to a report in the March/April 2005 issue
of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) clinical,
peer-reviewed journal.
The mouth can react differently to drugs and those
reactions can vary in significance, according to Scott S. DeRossi, DMD,
lead author of the recent study.
“An adverse reaction depends on the drugs you use.
Too much bismuth subsalicylate, for example, can turn your tongue black,
but the reaction is temporary and harmless,” says Eric Shapira, DDS,
MAGD, MA, AGD spokesperson. “Also, too much antibiotic usage can do the
same thing and give you a black, hairy-looking tongue. And, any acidic
type of medication can cause canker sores, including chewable vitamin
C.”
Other types of reactions are possible, as well.
Some reactions can be prevented, but the dentist must be aware of what
drugs, vitamins, and herbs the patient is taking.
“Most of these reactions, however, cannot be
prevented, but early recognition, appropriate treatments, and changing
drug regimens can eliminate them,” explains Dr. DeRossi.
He notes that, as the population ages and more
drugs become available, patients can expect to encounter additional oral
side effects from medications.
“A dentist can help, both in diagnosing drug
interactions and in writing prescriptions that would be good to take in
order to avoid side effects. Some side effects are not dangerous and
others are, depending on the extent of drug administered and the kind of
drug that is used. Don’t forget that vitamins in excess become drugs and
can cause serious damage and injury,” says Dr. Shapira.
How to avoid and treat an oral reaction to
medication:
• Let your dentist know what drugs,
vitamins, and herbs you regularly take. • Visit your dentist when you
suspect that a reaction is occurring to medication you are taking.
• Use vitamins, herbs, and
over-the-counter medications only as directed by your physician.
