Drug-Induced Oral Complications: A Comprehensive Guide for Dental Professionals

Drug-induced oral complications are a common and often under-recognized problem in dental practice. These complications can range from minor nuisances to serious, life-threatening conditions. It is important for dental professionals to be aware of the potential oral side effects of medications and to be able to recognize and manage these complications effectively.

Drug-Induced Oral Complications

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9528 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages

FREE

Xerostomia

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is one of the most common drug-induced oral complications. It is caused by a reduction in salivary flow, which can be caused by a variety of medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics. Xerostomia can lead to a number of problems, including:

• Difficulty speaking and swallowing
• Increased risk of dental caries
• Oral pain and discomfort
• Mucosal inflammation

Treatment for xerostomia includes:

• Increasing fluid intake
• Using artificial saliva or saliva substitutes
• Stimulating salivary flow with sugar-free gum or candy
• Medications to increase salivary flow

Hyposalivation

Hyposalivation is a more severe form of xerostomia that can be caused by radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and certain medications. Hyposalivation can lead to a number of serious problems, including:

• Severe oral pain
• Difficulty eating and speaking
• Increased risk of dental caries
• Oral infections
• Osteonecrosis of the jaw

Treatment for hyposalivation includes:

• Aggressive oral hygiene measures
• Use of artificial saliva or saliva substitutes
• Medications to stimulate salivary flow
• Surgery to create a new salivary gland

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection of the mouth that is caused by the overgrowth of Candida albicans. Candidiasis can be caused by a number of factors, including antibiotic use, diabetes, and immunosuppression. Symptoms of candidiasis include:

• White or yellow patches on the tongue, cheeks, or roof of the mouth
• Soreness and burning in the mouth
• Difficulty swallowing
• Loss of taste

Treatment for candidiasis includes:

• Antifungal medications
• Rinsing the mouth with an antifungal solution
• Avoiding sugary foods and drinks

Mucositis

Mucositis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth. It is commonly caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Symptoms of mucositis include:

• Pain and soreness in the mouth
• Redness and swelling of the mucous membranes
• Difficulty eating and swallowing
• Bleeding from the mouth

Treatment for mucositis includes:

• Rinsing the mouth with a saltwater solution or an antiseptic mouthwash
• Taking pain relievers
• Eating soft foods and avoiding spicy or acidic foods
• Medications to reduce inflammation

Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis is a serious condition that occurs when there is a loss of blood supply to the jawbone. It can be caused by a number of factors, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and certain medications, such as bisphosphonates. Symptoms of osteonecrosis include:

• Pain in the jaw
• Swelling and redness of the jaw
• Loose teeth
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Exposed bone in the jaw

Treatment for osteonecrosis includes:

• Surgery to remove the dead bone
• Antibiotics to treat infection
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
• Medications to reduce inflammation

Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ)

MRONJ is a specific type of osteonecrosis that is caused by bisphosphonates

Drug-Induced Oral Complications

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9528 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	275 pages

FREE