3 Side Effects of Medication on Your Mouth

Dr. Thomas Bursich • May 18, 2021

Medications, vitamins, and supplements are part of what keep us healthy, prevent serious illness, or treat sicknesses. While there are many benefits from regular vitamin use, or taking medicine when you are sick, there are actually side effects that directly affect your oral health.


Here are three side effects that you might not know your medications can have on your mouth.


  • Tooth Decay

Unfortunately, most liquid medications and vitamins have sugar as one of the main ingredients. Just like with candy, this increased intake of sugar can eventually cause cavities and / or tooth decay. If you can’t find sugar free alternatives, try taking these instead as part of a meal. If you are taking a medication at night (like a cough syrup), make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards. This applies to children too! 


Some common sugar filled culprits are:

  • Vitamins
  • Liquid medications
  • Cough drops
  • Antacid tablets


  • Enlarged Gum Tissue

Commonly referred to as enlarged gum tissue, gingival overgrowth, has been known to occur with the following medications:



  • Antiseizure medications
  • Immunosuppressant drugs
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Chemotherapy agents


Gingival overgrowth is literally when the gums start to grow down onto the teeth. This can make the teeth appear smaller, giving your mouth a very gummy look. 


Anyone taking these kinds of medications need to be very strict about cleaning their teeth and gums every day. 


  • Soft Tissue Reactions

There are a few common soft tissue reactions that can be caused by medications like oral sores, inflammation, or even some discoloration. People taking the following medications are more prone to these issues:


  • Blood pressure control medication
  • Immunosuppressive agents
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Chemotherapy agents


If you are experiencing recurring oral sores or inflammation, we can help you figure out a solution. 


All dentists know how important vitamins and medications are for overall health, but if you are taking recurring medications you may not have realized that you need to keep your oral hygiene up or even add some extra care to ensure that you don’t experience any of these side effects. Additionally, make sure to disclose what medications you are taking every time you come to the dentist!