GLP-1 Medications & Your Oral Health
What patients taking Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Zepbound®, or Mounjaro® should know.
GLP-1 medications have become increasingly popular for managing diabetes and supporting weight loss. While these medications offer many health benefits, they may also affect your oral health in ways you may not expect.
Potential Oral Health Changes
💧 Dry Mouth
- Reduced saliva can increase the risk of cavities, plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath.
🤢 Acid Reflux or Vomiting
- Frequent exposure to stomach acid can weaken tooth enamel and increase sensitivity.
🥗 Changes in Diet & Nutrition
- Eating less or making significant dietary changes may affect the nutrients needed to support healthy teeth and gums.
🦷 Increased Risk of Gum Irritation
- Dry mouth and dietary changes may contribute to inflammation and plaque accumulation.
Protect Your Smile
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss every day.
- If vomiting occurs, rinse with water first and wait approximately 30 minutes before brushing.
- Maintain regular dental hygiene appointments.
- Keep your dental team informed of any medication changes.
Why We Ask About Your Medications
Many patients are surprised when we ask about medication changes at each visit. Your medications can affect far more than your overall health—they can also impact your oral health.
Whether you’re taking a GLP-1 medication or any other prescription medication, it’s important that your dental team stays informed. Certain medications may contribute to dry mouth, changes in appetite, acid reflux, altered healing, or other side effects that can affect your teeth and gums.
Keeping your medication list up to date helps us:
- Identify potential risk factors early
- Recommend personalized preventive care
- Monitor changes in your oral health
- Provide the safest and most effective treatment possible
🦷 Medication Spotlight: GLP-1 Medications
Taking Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Zepbound®, or Mounjaro®? Tell us!
Keeping your medication list updated helps us provide the best care possible and monitor for any oral health changes that may occur. Your mouth is connected to your overall health, and the more we know, the better we can care for you.