Dental Information » Can Prozac Cause Cavities
Can Prozac Cause Cavities
Q: I have been taking Prozac for about a year. My physician said that I should see my dentist regularly while I take this medication. Can Prozac cause cavities?
A: Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride) is a medication used to treat depression by inhibiting serotonin uptake. Today, psychiatrists are treating more young, active, people who are burdened with anxieties. Prozac is effective in treating mild and severe depression. Prozac increases concentration, energy, and mental acuity. However, this commonly prescribed medication has lead to some dental concerns.
How can an anti-depressant drug cause cavities? Here's a clue: Some side- effects associated with the use of Prozac include headaches, nervousness, insomnia, drowsiness, tremor, dizziness, nausea, teeth grinding (bruxism), and dry mouth (xerostomia). Dentists are most concerned with Prozac-induced bruxism or xerostomia.
Saliva is normally produced by the parotid, sublingual, and submandibular glands and secreted into the mouth through small tubes called salivary ducts. Saliva is important because it helps to clean the oral cavity and wash away food particles and bacteria. Saliva also aids in starch digestion. Prozac may decrease salivary flow in some patients. This can limit the natural cleaning process that takes place in the mouth between brushing and flossing. Numerous studies have shown that decreased salivary flow can increase the risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
Dentists usually recommend semi-annual examinations. If you are experiencing dry mouth, you may want to see your dentist three to four times per year. Dentists can also prescribe some synthetic saliva compounds that will rinse your teeth and help you swallow comfortably. Salivart is one product that can be useful. Chewing sugar-free gum may stimulate your salivary flow. If you are not able to brush and floss immediately after a meal, be sure to rinse your mouth with water.