GLP-1 WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS: DENTISTS WARN OF AN OVERLOOKED ORAL HEALTH RISK

Dentists are urging patients taking GLP-1 medications to include their dentist as part of their healthcare team

As the use of popular GLP-1 weight-loss medications continues to grow, dentists are warning Australians not to overlook the impact these drugs can have on oral health.

Weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have transformed the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes for hundreds of thousands of Australians.

But dental experts say there's one aspect of these medicines that often goes unnoticed: their potential impact on oral health.

The Australian Dental Association NSW is urging patients taking GLP-1 medications to include their dentist as part of their healthcare team, warning that common side effects can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and enamel erosion.

The advice comes as research estimates around half a million Australians are now using GLP-1 medications each month.

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs can affect oral health

ADA NSW President Dr Mark Morrin said the medications themselves do not directly damage teeth, but their side effects can create conditions that increase the risk of dental problems.

Common issues such as dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux can all affect oral health.

Reduced saliva, in particular, can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, mouth ulcers and difficulty swallowing.

Meanwhile, repeated vomiting or acid reflux exposes teeth to stomach acid, which can gradually wear away protective tooth enamel and increase sensitivity.

"These medications are changing lives, and that's something to celebrate," Dr Morrin said.

"But they can also produce side effects that affect the mouth, and many patients simply aren't aware of that."

Changing eating habits while taking GLP-1 medications may also affect oral health

Require good dental care

The association recommends that patients tell their dentist if they are taking GLP-1 medications so that any early signs of dry mouth or enamel erosion can be identified and managed.

Dr Morrin also advises people who experience vomiting not to brush their teeth immediately afterwards.

Instead, they should rinse their mouth with water and wait around 30 minutes before brushing to help protect tooth enamel.

Changing eating habits while taking GLP-1 medications may also affect oral health, particularly if people eat significantly less or rely heavily on meal replacement products.

"Healthy weight and healthy teeth should go hand in hand," Dr Morrin said.

"A simple conversation with your dentist could help prevent avoidable dental problems later."

With GLP-1 medications becoming an increasingly common part of chronic disease management in Australia, dental experts say understanding their whole-body effects, including those on oral health, is an important part of long-term care.