According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 20% of children regularly take prescription medication. This number is steadily increasing, making it essential to understand how these medications can impact your child’s oral health. When you visit Gleam Pediatric Dentistry for your child’s regular examination, please inform our team about any medications your child is taking. This information helps us tailor our treatment approach to better suit their needs.
Here are 5 common ways medication can affect your child’s oral health:
1. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth occurs when saliva production is reduced. Several medications can cause this condition. Saliva is crucial for neutralizing damaging acids, especially for young teeth. Without adequate saliva, the risk of tooth decay increases. If your child experiences dry mouth, our team at Gleam Pediatric Dentistry can recommend solutions to alleviate this issue.
2. Gum Tissue Enlargement
Certain medications can cause your child’s gum tissue to become enlarged or overgrown, requiring extra care to prevent gum inflammation. In such cases, we will provide special care instructions to help maintain healthy gums and prevent complications.
3. Tooth Decay
While most medications don’t directly cause tooth decay, many use sugar to improve taste, such as liquid medicines and candy-like throat lozenges. Sugar feeds decay-causing bacteria, leading to cavities over time. We recommend opting for sugar-free versions of medications when available and having your child take their medication with a meal and a drink to wash away sugary residues.
4. Bleeding
Some medications can reduce the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to increased bleeding during oral surgery or when losing a tooth. It’s crucial to notify our team of any medications your child is taking before scheduling treatment. This ensures we can provide the best care and prepare for any potential complications.
5. Soft Tissue Reactions
Certain medications can cause oral inflammations, discoloration, or oral sores. If your child experiences any of these symptoms, contact us immediately. We will work with you to develop an oral hygiene plan to alleviate these side effects and ensure your child’s comfort.
It’s essential for our team at Gleam Pediatric Dentistry to be aware of any medications your child is taking. This knowledge allows us to tailor our treatments and recommendations to safeguard your child’s oral health. If you notice any changes in your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our goal is to work with you to establish a lifetime of healthy habits and optimal oral health for your child.
For questions regarding medication and your child’s oral health, contact Gleam Pediatric Dentistry. We’re here to help!
Gleam Pediatric Dentistry of Marlton
Email: admin@gleamteamdental.com
Phone: 856-291-6888
Url: https://gleamteamdental.com/
270 N Elmwood Rd ste h-140
Marlton, NJ 08053