The Association has asked people and dentists to use certain medications with great care as they can go on to cause them oral complications that are associated with moderate-to-severe dry mouth.
The trend that has been noticed recently is that these prescribed and over-the-counter medications are the primary reason of chronic dry mouth. This was stated by FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg, M.D., and Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. If a person is taking multiple numbers of medications then the dry mouth syndrome is particularly seen in them. These consist of multiple drugs, such as antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, antidepressants and other medications.
The dry mouth syndrome can be really detrimental to the individual. Without the cleansing effects of saliva and the presences of chronic dry mouth can lead to tooth decay, inflammation or infection of the mouth, throat or tongue, impaired chewing or swallowing and other concerns. The drugs that go on to lead to dry mouth should have listed and labeled on them what they do cause so that the individual is aware of their shortfalls.
The ADA-FDA has stipulated that there should be warnings on the drugs and medications about dry mouth and what it can go on to cause one. Oral complications that are associated with reduced salivary flow include standard ones as dental caries, oral candidiasis, glossitis, mucosal sores or infections and also impaired mastication or swallowing function.
When people go on to read the oral warning on the medications, they will know right away about deciding whether to use the drug or not or at least go on to discuss it with their dentist. The increased public awareness about the risks associated with regular use of xerogenic medications and their potential impact on oral health and quality of life, which is particularly for the elderly.