Understanding “Ozempic Teeth”: How Weight Loss Injections Can Affect Your Oral Health
June 30, 2025
And How Potomac Dental Centre Can Help Protect Your Smile
With the growing popularity of weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, many patients are achieving impressive results in managing their weight and overall health. However, as with any medication, there can be side effects and recently, dentists and patients alike have been noticing a concerning trend: what some are calling “Ozempic teeth.”
What Is “Ozempic Teeth”?
“Ozempic teeth” refers to the dental side effects some people experience while taking GLP-1 agonist medications (like Ozempic and its counterparts). These injections, originally designed to treat Type 2 diabetes, have become widely used for weight loss due to their ability to suppress appetite and regulate blood sugar. But here’s what they can do to your teeth and gums:
Common Oral Side Effects:
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): A lack of saliva can increase your risk for cavities, bad breath, gum disease, and oral infections.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Some patients experience frequent stomach upset, and vomiting can expose your teeth to stomach acids leading to enamel erosion and increased sensitivity.
- Dehydration: These medications may reduce overall fluid intake or appetite, making it easier to become dehydrated, another contributor to dry mouth and poor oral health.
- Neglected Oral Habits: As energy levels, eating patterns, or daily routines shift with weight loss regimens, some patients unintentionally start skipping brushing, flossing, or dental visits.
Why Oral Health Matters on Ozempic
Your mouth is the gateway to your overall health. When saliva production decreases and stomach acids are more frequently present, your teeth and gums take a hit leading to more cavities, faster enamel wear, and increased risk for gum recession or infection. These side effects may seem minor at first, but over time they can lead to serious and costly dental problems.
How to Protect Your Teeth While on Weight Loss Medications
If you’re using Ozempic or a similar injection, here are steps you can take to protect your oral health:
1. Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dry mouth and help rinse away harmful bacteria.
2. Don’t Skip Meals Entirely:
Even if you have less appetite, try to maintain balanced meals to keep saliva flowing and your oral pH balanced.
3. Rinse After Vomiting or Acid Reflux:
If you’re experiencing nausea, don’t brush right away rinse with water first to neutralize acids before brushing.
4. Use Products for Dry Mouth:
Ask us about saliva substitutes, prescription toothpaste, or mouthwashes designed for dry mouth relief.
5. Keep Up With Dental Visits:
Routine cleanings and check-ups allow us to spot early signs of decay or enamel wear and help you stay ahead of any issues.
How Potomac Dental Centre Can Help
At Potomac Dental Centre, we’re seeing more patients on GLP-1 medications and we’re here to help you protect your smile while you care for your body.
Here’s what we offer:
Customized Prevention Plans: We’ll tailor your dental care to fit your unique medical history and medication use.
Oral DNA Saliva Testing: Track changes in your oral bacteria to prevent gum disease or serious health concerns.
Nutritional and Oral Health Guidance: We can help you adjust your habits to reduce risk factors.
Comfort-First Approach: If you’re experiencing sensitivity or erosion, we offer solutions to strengthen and protect your teeth without discomfort.
Let Us Be Part of Your Wellness Journey
If you’re on Ozempic, Wegovy, or any weight loss injection, now is the time to prioritize your oral health. Catch issues early and prevent small problems from turning into big ones.