Here at Smiles of Ryde, our top priority is ensuring dental patients are fully informed so they can advocate for themselves when it comes to their dental care, especially regarding treatments and recovery. Have you ever wondered how the medications you take regularly might interact with other medications, or even with your diet and lifestyle on a holistic level? If not, check in with your trusted health professional when you visit them next for a full run-down. For now though, to help bridge some of the gap in patient knowledge, we’ve put together a brief guide highlighting a few ways medications impact recovery after dental treatments. It’s important to note that this is by no means a one-size-fits-all guide, it’s simply advice to take into account. We recommend you always chat to your dentist about your specific medications before undergoing any treatment.
1. Medications that may cause dry mouth
There are quite a few medications that can cause dry mouth. As saliva is essential for protecting teeth and gums and promoting healing, dry mouth can increase the risk of a prolonged or incomplete recovery.
Some common medications that can cause dry mouth include:
- Blood pressure medications
- Antihistamines
- Anxiety medications
- Pain medications
- Antidepressants
2. Blood-thinning medications
Blood thinners do exactly what it says in the name; they thin the blood. When blood has been thinned by these medications, it often shows a reduction in its ability to clot, meaning patients may see an increase in bleeding during and after dental procedures (even during a typical dental clean).
Commonly prescribed blood thinners include:
- Warfarin
- Clopidogrel
- Aspirin
3. Smoking, vaping, and alcohol consumption
You may have thought we were only focusing on prescription medications, but it is incredibly important to understand how other substances can affect your dental treatment and recovery as well. Smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use can all lead to complications and a subpar healing process.
We understand that you may be tentative about disclosing information like this, but we are proud to provide care in a non-judgemental and highly supportive way for all our patients. Working with us and providing us with honest, up-to-date lifestyle information helps us to keep you safe.
How other medications impact recovery after dental treatments
Steriods, immunosuppresants, certain supplements, cancer treatments, osteoporosis medications, and many other common medications can interfere with dental treatments and the recovery period in their own unique ways. Rather than list them all here, the best advice we can give patients is to always bring a full list of your medications, including supplements, to your dental appointments to provide to your dentist.
When all is said and done, your medications don’t stop you from having dental treatment, they simply help us tailor your care. If you’d like personalised guidance on this topic, our friendly team is here to help.
FAQs
Can I take painkillers after my dental treatment? Generally, yes, but be sure to run it by your dentist first.
Should I stop taking my medication before my dental treatment, just in case? Absolutely not! You should continue taking your regular medications unless advised otherwise by your dentist or GP.
Can supplements affect dental treatments? Yes, supplements can sometimes affect dental treatment and recovery and interact with pain relief. Examples include fish oil, garlic tablets, and St John’s Wort.
