Is your birth control affecting your oral health?

For many women, remembering to take their birth control pill is an important part of the day. And if you’ve been taking the pill for a while, you probably already know that it can affect things such as your mood and your weight. But you should also know, if you are trying to decide which contraceptive method to use, that oral contraceptives can also negatively affect your oral health.

Your oral contraceptives and your oral health

When starting any new medication, it’s always a good idea to pay attention to any changes in your overall health, including, of course, your oral health. And, it’s always a good idea to take good care of yourself and your oral health, which can help to prevent serious issues.

Birth control pills have been known to cause these common problems:

• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). This disorder is characterized by jaw pain, headaches, and muscle aches in the neck and shoulders, among other symptoms. Birth control pills can lead to jaw joint pain because of the hormones in the pills, which can inflame joints.

• Gum disease. The hormones in oral contraceptives can make the gums extra sensitive, which can make gums more susceptible to plaque and bacteria while making it painful to brush and floss as thoroughly as you should.

• Dry socket after a tooth removal. Women who take birth control pills are more likely to have this problem – a blood clot naturally forms after the tooth is removed but gets dislodged. This can be very painful and can also lead to an infection or other complications.

You should also be aware that if you are prescribed an antibiotic after a dental or medical procedure, it can make oral contraceptives less effective.

If you are worried that your birth control pills are negatively affecting your oral health, talk to your doctor right away. It’s also a good idea to always let your dentist know what kind of medication you are taking and to make an appointment at the first sign of pain or problems. Contact Soft Touch Dentistry at the Brighton office at (617) 782-9250 or the Newton office at (617) 332-8146 for an appointment today!