(NEXSTAR) – Patients taking Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications are experiencing a complication that’s not listed among the most frequent side effects. And no, it’s not about “Ozempic babies,” although that’s a topic of concern as well.
Dentists are cautioning about instances of what’s being termed “Ozempic teeth.” According to Adam Taylor, an anatomy professor at Lancaster University, in a piece for The Conversation, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy can cause dry mouth due to the active ingredient, semaglutide, impacting the salivary glands. Additionally, these medications may decrease the urge to drink water by reducing thirst levels.
Those factors combined increase the risk of cavities and gum disease, explained Dr. Rajpal Anjali, a cosmetic dentist at Beverly Hills Dental Arts.
To make things worse, some people also experience side effects like acid reflux and vomiting, further harming their tooth enamel.
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“While most users manage GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic without significant oral health problems, a segment of users may face noticeable side effects including dry mouth, nausea, or vomiting, which can indirectly impact dental and gum health,” stated Anjali.
Symptoms like heightened tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, noticeable enamel erosion, gum irritation, receding gums, and slower healing after dental treatments should be watched for, she explained. Patients using GLP-1 drugs should inform their dentists to ensure they receive the necessary dental care.
Anjali further noted, “Dentists should remain vigilant about these possible risks and keep an eye on patients, especially during the initial months after they begin taking the medication.”
Unlike some other GLP-1 side effects, the damage to your teeth may not be reversible if you stop taking the medication.
Taylor recommends drinking more water as a straightforward method to combat “Ozempic teeth.” Furthermore, chewing sugar-free gum may help stimulate saliva production if dry mouth becomes an issue due to the medication.
