6. Medications and Drug Reactions: Unintended Oral Aftereffects
Sometimes, the very medications intended to heal or alleviate certain conditions can leave behind unwelcome souvenirs in the form of mouth ulcers. Several drugs, including certain antibiotics, painkillers, and antihypertensive agents, can have this side effect. The oral cavity, constantly exposed to these medications, becomes the frontline for these reactions.
The science behind it is intriguing. Some drugs can cause a direct irritative effect on the oral mucosa, while others might lead to a systemic reaction, culminating in mouth ulcers. Additionally, certain medications can cause dry mouth, reducing the protective role of saliva and making the oral environment more susceptible to ulcers.
Another fascinating aspect is the hypersensitivity reactions. For some individuals, specific drugs might trigger an immune response that, in its zealousness to protect the body, ends up harming the oral tissues, resulting in ulceration.
For those on multiple medications, it becomes a puzzle, discerning which drug might be the culprit. Often, a collaboration between the dentist and the physician is essential to pinpoint the cause and find an alternative medication if possible. (6)
