Sufferers utilizing Ozempic and different GLP-1 medicine are reporting a complication not listed among the many drug’s commonest unintended effects.
We’re not speaking about “Ozempic babies,” however that is additionally a factor.
Dentists warn they’re seeing instances of one thing nicknamed “Ozempic teeth.” Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy can result in dry mouth as a result of the energetic ingredient, semaglutide, impacts the salivary glands, explains Adam Taylor, an anatomy professor at Lancaster College, in an article for The Dialog. The drugs also can trigger individuals to drink much less water as a result of they really feel much less thirsty.
These components mixed improve the chance of cavities and gum illness, defined Dr. Rajpal Anjali, a beauty dentist at Beverly Hills Dental Arts.
To make issues worse, some individuals additionally expertise unintended effects like acid reflux disorder and vomiting, additional harming their tooth enamel.
“Most users tolerate GLP-1 medications like Ozempic without serious oral health issues, but a subset experience notable side effects such as dry mouth, nausea, or vomiting, which can indirectly affect teeth and gums,” mentioned Anjali.
Warning indicators embody elevated tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, seen enamel erosion, gum irritation, receding gums, and slower therapeutic after dental procedures, she mentioned. Anybody taking a GLP-1 drug ought to notify their dentist to allow them to get additional care for his or her enamel as wanted.
“Dentists should also be aware of these potential risks and monitor patients accordingly, especially in the first few months after starting the medication,” Anjali added.
In contrast to another GLP-1 unintended effects, the injury to your enamel will not be reversible if you happen to cease taking the treatment.
One easy option to forestall “Ozempic teeth” is to drink extra water, advises Taylor. Chewing sugar-free gum also can enhance your saliva manufacturing if you happen to’re experiencing dry mouth on account of the treatment.
