Ozempian Has been a threat button recently. The prescription drug, Semaglutide, is usually used to treat type 2 diabetes, but in recent years it has increased in popularity among people who use it to lose weight.
Many celebrities, as Sharon Osbourne and Serena Williams, have publicly shared That they are in some form of a GLP-1 drug, which further normalizes its off-label use. But as with all drugs, it will not come without potential side effects. The latest to get visibility is called “Ozempic teeth” by some doctors. Similar “Ozempic Face” and “Ozempic butt,” Ozempian teeth refer to the negative impact that takes the drug may have on teeth.
In front, two dental experts break what Ozempic teeth are, what causes it, signs you can watch out for and whether it can be reversed or not. Continue to browse to read more.
Experts displayed in this article
Ben Winters is an orthodontist, dentist and founder of Something nice.
Inna Chern, DDS, is a general dentist and spokesman for Pronamel.
What are the Ozempic teeth phenomena?
Ozempian teeth refers to the potentially negative effects of taking GLP-1 drugs. “GLP-1 medicines can cause xerostomia, ie dry mouth, as well as an increased presence of buttoning and abrasive behavior,” says Inna Chern, DDS. “The dryness then creates an acidic environment in the mouth, making the likelihood of cavities and gingivitis increases.” In addition, hing and grinding can also contribute to TMJ and TMD-related problems.
“Another thing we see is that some of these GLP-1 can cause nausea in humans,” says Ben Winters, DDS. Essentially, if the vomiting more often, it can also lead to enamel erosion.
An important thing to note: “There is nothing directly on the drug label that says this can be caused, because these drugs are new, but there are lots of people online talking about it and dentists see it,” says Dr. Winters.
What causes Ozempic teeth?
“GLP-1 medicines can reduce saliva production and suppress thirst, which results in dry mouth,” says Dr. Chern. “They can also trigger acid reflux, nausea and vomiting – all of which expose their teeth to stomach acid.”
Saliva, of course, bathes the teeth and removes the excess of biofilm that comes from dry mouth and increased acidity, so when you do not have saliva, harmful bacteria can increase the probability of cavities and more.
Dr. Chern says there are a lot of warning signs you can be looking for if you take an GLP-1 medication, such as having to get up at night to drink water, a movie on the teeth during the day, a bitter taste in your mouth when you wake up and thinner enamel. In addition, she says to watch out for new chips on the teeth, as well as a gray or transparent appearance on the edges or front of the teeth.
Can you turn Ozempian teeth?
The short answer? No. If the problems you have with your teeth are directly related to taking the medicine, these problems will decrease when you stop taking it. However, it does not fix any previous problems that occurred. “Enamel cannot be repaired when destroyed, so it is important to be aware of early warning signs,” says Dr. Chern.
Although you cannot reverse the effects of Ozempic teeth, you can take steps to ensure that you maintain the correct oral hygiene. “I recommend that you brush twice daily with a soft brush with an enamel -strengthening toothpaste,” says Dr. Chern. “In addition, it is important to hydrate regularly, take measures to increase saliva production such as chewing sugar -free gums and limit acid or sugar -liable food and drink such as coffee or sweets, as these can further weaken the enamel.”
Dr. Winters adds that you should also make sure you use a fluoride cream. And of course, make sure you visit the dentist regularly.
Renee Rodriguez (She/her) is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.
