What are Ozempic teeth? The silent side effect of weight loss drug that could harm your smile

Ozempic is helping many shed extra pounds, get in shape, and avoid risk of chronic diseases. But there's a growing concern that the GLP-1 medication could silently raise the risk of certain conditions.As terms like Ozempic face and Ozempic butt gains prominence, dentists are seeing a new troubling trend emerge which is being termed as Ozempic teeth.Patients on GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic are reporting unexpected dental woes from dry mouth and bad breath to sudden cavities and gum disease. Experts are now warning that the very mechanisms that help these medications curb appetite may also be disrupting the delicate balance that keeps your teeth and gums healthy.Ozempic teeth refers to a range of dental issues people on GLP-1 medications have been reporting such as dry mouth, bad breath, gum disease and tooth decay.The drugs are known to suppress appetite which means being on Ozempic could stimulate less saliva flow which can affect lubrication of mouth and throat. According to Cleveland Clinic, saliva also helps protect the teeth from cavity-causing bacteria.“Anecdotal reports suggest that Ozempic and similar weight-loss drugs may cause dry mouth,” cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green told the Daily Mail.“Ozempic might reduce saliva production, diminishing the mouth’s natural ability to cleanse teeth.”This can affect dental health and cause serious damage to the teeth.“Saliva is crucial for protecting teeth, as it helps remove food particles, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides essential minerals that strengthen tooth enamel,” Green told the Daily Mail.“When saliva levels are insufficient, the risk of cavities and tooth decay significantly increases.”Dentist Dr Victoria Holden told the Independent that gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea and vomiting which are common side effects of Ozempic could also be problematic for your dental health.“The stomach is very acidic, and if the patients are having that acid come up into their mouth, then it really is quite damaging to the teeth,” Dr Holden said.Drinking lots of water, eating a balanced diet, and practicing good dental hygiene can help you deal with Ozempic teeth.Keeping your dentist informed about being on the obesity medication could also help them advise you better on Ozempic teeth.