While a vital part of some children’s asthma management plans, the powder in some inhalers is acidic and can damage tooth enamel. This could lead to tooth decay over time if it isn’t balanced with good oral hygiene.
To avoid tooth decay, rinse your child’s mouth with water immediately after each use of the inhaler. Children should not brush their teeth immediately after using the inhaler because the powder can soften tooth enamel. Allow 30 – 60 minutes before brushing.
Some medicines can affect your child’s oral health because of their sugar content. Check the label of any medication for any hidden sugars, particularly if your child’s going to be taking the medication for a long period of time.
Saliva helps clean and protect your child’s teeth – without saliva, tooth decay and other oral health problems can become more common. But some medications can reduce saliva production, leaving your child with a dry mouth. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the effects of the medication on saliva and teeth. Older children and teenagers could try chewing sugar-free gum. It stimulates saliva flow and helps to protect teeth from decay.
You can also encourage your child to rinse her mouth with water immediately after taking medication, and to brush with fluoride toothpaste one hour after.
Typically there are high amounts of sugar content in medications – it can be like give your child a piece of candy right before bed! When medications are to be taken before bedtime be sure give them to your child before they brush their teeth.
Talk To Your Doctor
Please discuss any concerns you may have about your child’s oral healthcare with their doctor. And let us know of all medications your child may take. We want to be your partner in your child’s oral and dental healthcare.