### Common Oral Side Effects of Medications When taking medications, it's important to consider their potential impact on your mouth and teeth. Here are some common oral side effects: 1. **Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)**: Many medications can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. This can cause irritation, inflammation, and increase the risk of infection, tooth decay, and gum disease. Drinking water and chewing sugarless gum can help alleviate symptoms. 2. **Oral Candidiasis**: Certain asthma inhalers can cause a yeast infection in the mouth. Rinsing your mouth after using an inhaler can help prevent this. 3. **Gingival Overgrowth**: Some medications can cause gum tissue to swell and grow over the teeth, increasing the risk of periodontal disease. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can help manage this condition. 4. **Mucositis**: Chemotherapy drugs can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes, leading to painful swelling, mouth ulcers, and difficulty eating. This condition is more likely if you drink alcohol, use tobacco, or have certain health conditions. 5. **Mouth Ulcers**: Chemotherapy drugs can also cause open sores in the mouth, known as canker sores. These are painful and can make eating difficult. 6. **Taste Changes (Dysgeusia)**: Some medications can alter your sense of taste, causing food to taste different or leaving a metallic, salty, or bitter taste in your mouth. This is usually temporary. 7. **Tooth Decay**: Long-term use of sweetened medications can lead to tooth decay. Rinsing your mouth after using such products or opting for sugar-free alternatives can help. 8. **Tooth Discoloration**: Certain antibiotics, like tetracycline, can cause tooth discoloration if taken during pregnancy or in young children. Other medications can also cause staining of existing teeth. By being aware of these potential side effects, you can take steps to protect your oral health while taking necessary medications.