Oral health directly affects our overall health and of course, our quality of life. According to the American Dental Association, dental disease is one of the top causes of medical and emergency room visits. Furthermore, this also puts seniors at an increased risk for dental disease due to the several medications they have to maintain.
Thus, A New Well, Inc., the expert in home health care services in Peachtree City, Georgia, brings you four negative effects of medications on your oral health and how to prevent them.
- Dry mouth
Medications for high blood pressure, Parkinson’s disease, and many more can cause ‘dry mouth syndrome.’ It reduces the flow of saliva in our mouth and can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay and gum infection.
Like a trusted home health care in Georgia, patients should be advised to sip water throughout the day or chew sugar-free gum to promote saliva flow.
- Inflammation and mouth ulcers
When taking prescribed drugs such as oral contraceptives, immunosuppressant drugs, and some chemotherapy medications, patients may develop inflammation, mouth ulcers, and discoloration of the mouth’s soft tissues.
- Enlarged gums
Gingival hyperplasia is an overgrowth of gum tissue. It is often caused by poor oral hygiene or a side-effect of using certain medications like phenytoin, antiseizure medications, and calcium channel blockers for heart conditions. To reduce its effects, personal care in Georgia can assist in good dental hygiene such as brushing and flossing.
- Fungal infections
Certain inhaler medications for asthma can cause fungal infections such as oral candidiasis. With skilled nursing, the effects can be reduced by rinsing the mouth with water and spitting after each use of the inhaler.
Are you looking for a reliable home health aide in Troy, Michigan? Call 800-341-0120 now!
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