Tell Your Dentist Which Prescription Meds You Are Taking

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It’s standard practice for healthcare providers to find out which medications their patients are taking. At The Dental Design Center in White Plains NY, our patients sometimes wonder why we ask them about prescription medications before their dental treatment. The reason is that some meds, wehter prescription or over-the-counter, can influence oral health or dental treatment.

 

Bleeding Issues

 

Heparin/warfarin and other anticoagulants can lead to abnormal bleeding, because they affect your ability to clot. If you undergo oral surgery, it’s important for your dentist to know if you are taking these meds.

Metallic Taste

Some cardiovascular agents, central nervous system stimulants, respiratory inhalants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, and smoke deterrent drugs have been known to a metallic or bitter taste in your mouth. This doesn’t necessarily affect dental treatment, but overdoing sugary breath mints increases your risk of cavities.

 

Abnormal Gums

 

Do you feel as though your gums are significantly bigger in proportion to your teeth?

 

Enlarged gum tissue (‘gingival hyperplasia’) is an overgrowth of the gum tissue around your teeth. Gingival hyperplasia can make your gums appear more prominent than your teeth. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene or prescription medications. These include antiseizure drugs, calcium channel blockers (nifedipine, verapamil, and diltiazem), or immunosuppressants. If you are taking these drugs, make sure you are paying close attention to your teeth and gum care.

Dry Mouth

 

Over 400 drugs can cause or complicate dry mouth. This long list includes, but is not limited to; antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medicines, and muscle relaxers. 

 

When you come into The Dental Design Center in White Plains NY, be prepared to let us know which prescription meds you are taking along with the dosage. Patients from Scarsdale, Westchester County, and New Castle come to us for general and cosmetic dentistry. Call for an appointment today!

Contact The Dental Design Center – Ira J. Handschuh, D.D.S.:

914-683-5898

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):


280 Dobbs Ferry Rd Ste 104
White Plains, New York
10607

 

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