While various medications and treatments are prescribed for your overall wellbeing, they may have some kind of effect on your oral health and end up causing some dental problems. Some of the most common side effects from medications that affect oral health include:

1. Dry mouth - Medications that cause can dry mouth are:
   • Antihistamines
   • Decongestants
   • High blood pressure medications
   • Antidepressants
   • Sedatives
   • Pain medications
   • Parkinson's disease medications
   • Antacids
2. Abnormal bleeding - Medications that cause abnormal bleeding are blood thinners that prevent a stroke. eg. Aspirin
3. Altered taste - Medications that cause can altered taste are:
   • Cardiovascular drugs
   • Central nervous system stimulants
   • Antibiotic drugs
   • Nicotine skin patches for smoking cessation
   • Some respiratory inhalants
4. Soft tissue reaction - Medications that cause a soft tissue reaction are:
   • Blood pressure medications
   • Immunosuppressive agents
   • Oral contraceptives
   • Certain chemotherapy medications
5. Enlarged gums - Medications that cause enlarged gums are:
   • Antiseizure medications
   • Immunosuppressant drugs
   • Calcium channel blockers
6.  
7. Cavities - Medications that cause the risk of cavities are:
   • Antacid tablets
   • Antifungal agents
   • Cough drops
   • Chewable vitamin tablets
8. Teeth and gum colour changes - Medications that cause this dental problem are:
   • Acne prevention medication
   • Certain mouth rinses used to cure gum disease
9. Bone loss - Medications that cause bone loss are:
   • Bisphosphonates, drugs used to treat osteoporosis
   • Use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, and antiepileptic drugs
10. Thrush - Medications that cause thrush are:
    • Antibiotics
    • Steroids
    • Chemotherapy

These are only a few examples of how medications can affect your oral health. Your family doctor should be aware of all your health problems and might state the possible side-effects before prescribing a drug to you. Do explain your personal/family health history to any doctor/dentist you consult and check with the pharmacist before picking up over-the-counter medication. And prevention is any day better than cure, so always use India’s best toothpaste - Meswak to keep all dental problems at bay! Maintain proper oral hygiene and choose the right toothpaste to keep all dental problems away & ensure proper dental care.