It is important to keep our oral health in good condition as it affects the overall health of our body. One of the things that can affect our oral health are the harmful side effects from certain medicines that we take to remedy other ill effects in our body. This article discusses some of the common side effects of medicines and how you can counter them.

Dryness in the mouth is one or the more common side effects. Saliva functions as a cleansing agent for our mouth and helps to remove food particles from our teeth. A reduction in saliva can cause tooth decay. If you experience dryness, drink water or chew on gum to keep your mouth generating saliva.

Unusual bleeding can be caused when we ingest anticoagulant like aspirins, usually as a preventive medication for heart diseases or stroke. These medication reduce the clotting function of our blood. This can lead to excessive bleeding from dental procedures like tooth extraction. Check with your doctor before going for any oral procedures.

Some medications can cause the swelling of gum tissues. Immunosuppressant used by organ transplant patients may lead to excessive tissue overgrowth. If you are taking this medication, take good care of your oral hygiene, as some of the more complicated cases may require surgery.

Teeth discoloration can happen when you are taking tetracycline medication, commonly prescribed for bacterial infections like acne, skin infection and other respiratory tract infections. There are dental procedures available to remove the stains from your teeth.

Medicines are prescribed to cure illness and keep us in a good health conditions. Continue to use them - be it prescription drugs, over the counter medicines or vitamins as directed by your physicians. If ever you notice any of the above changes in your mouth, consult your dentist immediately. They can offer advice and guidance and correct the issue for you