Rescue inhalers can cause dry mouth.
Strong anti-inflammatory medications (corticosteroids) can cause dry mouth. They also can make you more likely to get fungal (yeast) infections in your mouth. Finally, these drugs can slow the healing process. If you use an inhaler that contains steroids, make sure to use a spacer. This is a plastic tube that attaches to the inhaler. It holds the dose while you inhale. Rinse your mouth with water afterward and spit it out. This helps to decrease the chance of getting a yeast infection in your mouth.
Your adrenal glands normally produce hormones that help you and your body respond to stress. When you take steroids, these glands may not work as well. As a result, your body may be less able to respond to stress. Rarely, this can cause serious problems during dental visits. Let your dentist know if you have been taking steroids for more than two weeks. You may need more steroid treatment before you receive dental care.
Some asthma drugs, such as theophylline and zafirlukast, interact with medicines that your dentist may prescribe. Make sure your dentist knows which drugs you are taking and the dosage of each drug.
The way you sit in the dental chair may affect your breathing. Work with your dentist to get comfortable in the chair. If you need oxygen during an appointment, your dentist should have it for you. If you use oxygen at home, bring your portable oxygen tank to the dental office.
If your tuberculosis is inactive, you can visit your dentist. A test called a saliva or "sputum" culture will show if your tuberculosis is active or not.
Drugs to treat sinusitis can cause dry mouth. This can increase your risk of tooth decay and yeast infections in your mouth. Breathing through your mouth can dry out your mouth, too.
