Ozempic teeth: Weight loss jabs present troubling new side effect
(TNS) — There is no question that the popular GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic have been gamechangers in many folks’ health journey.
But almost all medications come with some sort of side effects, and a few troubling ones have been discovered with GLP-1 drugs as their use becomes more and more prevalent.
There was Ozempic face. Then there was Ozempic butt.
And now folks, dentists are sounding the alarm about Ozempic teeth.
Got your attention?
Wel, according to reports, dentists warn that the drugs can lead to dry mouth because the semaglutide in them affects the salivary glands. Also, because the medications can make you feel less thirsty, people are also prone to drinking less water while on them.
And those two things combined can lead to an increase in cavities and gum disease. Also, acid reflux and vomiting are well-documented side-effects of the drugs, and those things can also damage tooth enamel.
“Most users tolerate GLP-1 medications like Ozempic without serious oral health issues, but a subset experience notable side effect such as dry mouth, nausea, or vomiting, which can indirectly affect teeth and gums,” Dr. Rajpal Anjali, a cosmetic dentist at Beverly Hills Dental Arts, said according to The Hill.
So, how do you know if you are developing Ozempic teeth?
Increased tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, visible enamel erosion, gum irritation, receding gums, and slower healing after dental procedures are all warning signs.
How do you get ahead of this one?
Well, per The Hill, the answer is pretty obvious. Let your dentist know you are on a GLP-1 drug. From there, Anjali said, it is important that dentists are “aware of these potential risks and monitor patients accordingly, especially in the first few months after starting the medication.”
Dentists warn the impact on teeth might not be reversible, so it is important to be aware, and to take preventative steps, too, such as drinking more water and chewing sugar-free gum to increase the production of saliva.