Accutane and Your Teeth A Canadian Dental Guide
Using Accutane (isotretinoin) for acne can be life-changing. It can also make your mouth feel different—drier lips, tender gums, even the odd mouth sore. The good news: with a few smart tweaks, you can keep your smile healthy while you finish treatment.
Does Accutane affect your teeth and gums?
Yes—mainly through dryness. Isotretinoin reduces oil and moisture in skin and mucosa, which can lead to dry lips and mouth, irritation, and more sensitivity to acids and spicy foods. Routine dental care is still safe; you’ll just need extra moisture and fluoride support.
What Accutane does to your mouth
Isotretinoin reduces activity of oil glands. That’s helpful for acne but also dries the thin tissues that line your lips, mouth, and nose. When your mouth is dry, saliva can’t do its full job—buffering acids, washing away food, and delivering minerals that protect enamel.
Common mouth changes on isotretinoin
– Dry, chapped lips and lip corners
– Dry mouth (xerostomia), sticky feeling, morning breath
– Mouth sores (aphthae) and gum tenderness
– Sensitivity to hot, cold, or acidic foods/drinks
– More irritation from spicy or salty foods
– Occasional nosebleeds from dry nasal passages
Daily care that really helps
Small habits add up. Try these dentist-approved steps:
– Sip plain water often (keep a reusable bottle handy). Aim for steady sips, not big gulps at once.
– Use a bedside humidifier—especially in dry Canadian winters.
– Chew sugar-free gum or lozenges with xylitol to stimulate saliva.
– Switch to a soft-bristled brush and gentle technique. Hard brushing can irritate dry tissues.
– Choose a fluoride toothpaste with about 1,000–1,500 ppm fluoride to strengthen enamel. Sensitivity formulas can help if cold air or drinks sting.
– Pick an alcohol-free mouth rinse. If flavors burn, look for gentle, moisturizing options made for dry mouth.
– Keep lips protected with a simple balm (no sting) and reapply often.
Want more step-by-step ideas? See practical dry mouth strategies you can start today.
Dental visits and timing while you’re on Accutane
Keep your regular checkups and cleanings. Routine dentistry—exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings, and urgent care—is generally fine during isotretinoin therapy. The key is communication: tell your dental team you’re on Accutane, note any dryness or sores, and bring the products you’re using if you’re unsure they’re safe.
Elective surgical procedures (like planned extractions) deserve a quick conversation between your dentist/oral surgeon and your prescribing physician. Some older opinions suggested delaying surgery; more recent practice is individualized. Your team will weigh your skin dose, your mouth’s healing history, and the urgency of the procedure.
Thinking ahead about removal of third molars? Read what to expect from wisdom teeth removal and ask your provider about the best timing for you.
Orthodontics, aligners, and retainers
Aligners and braces are usually fine during isotretinoin. Dryness can make cheeks and lips feel stickier against brackets—orthodontic wax and frequent water sips help. Keep aligners extra clean (gentle soap and cool water), and avoid hot water that bends plastic.
Mouth sores and chapped lips: what eases the burn
– Stick with bland, lukewarm foods until sores calm.
– Avoid acidic beverages (cola, citrus, kombucha) during flares.
– Try a mild, alcohol-free rinse; for stubborn spots, your dentist may recommend a protective gel.
– Keep lip balm with you (petrolatum or lanolin base often soothes best).
Fluoride and enamel protection: your best friends on Accutane
Saliva normally bathes teeth in protective minerals. When it’s low, fluoride steps in to harden enamel and resist acid. Ask about:
– In-office fluoride varnish at your cleaning
– Prescription high-fluoride toothpaste for nightly use (especially if you’ve had recent cavities)
– Timing your brushing: if you have something acidic, rinse with water first and brush 30–60 minutes later to avoid scrubbing softened enamel.
Cold-air and winter tips for Canadians
Cold air can trigger zingers when enamel is dry. Cover your mouth with a scarf on windy days, keep a water bottle handy, and use sensitivity toothpaste. If you play winter sports, a custom mouthguard protects teeth and helps warm the air you breathe.
Pain control and recovery planning
If you do need dental treatment, the usual over-the-counter comfort measures apply unless your doctor says otherwise. Ice for swelling (10 minutes on/off), soft foods, and sleep with your head elevated the first night after surgical care. For a refresher, here’s how to manage pain after dental procedures with simple steps that protect healing.
When to call your dentist or doctor
Get help promptly if you notice:
– Mouth sores that last longer than two weeks
– Painful, swollen gums or swelling in your face or jaw
– Fever with mouth symptoms
– Significant trouble eating or drinking due to mouth pain
– Heavy or frequent nosebleeds
Your dentist may coordinate with your prescriber to adjust your comfort plan or check for other causes.
“Without enough saliva, you are more likely to get tooth decay and gum disease.” — American Dental Association (ADA)
Myths vs facts
– Myth: “I have to postpone all dental work on Accutane.”
Fact: Routine care is generally safe. Share your medication list and let the dental team tailor comfort and aftercare to dryness.
– Myth: “Whitening is fine any time.”
Fact: Dry tissues and sensitive enamel may react more. If whitening matters to you, talk to your dentist about timing and sensitivity relief—often after treatment is the most comfortable plan.
– Myth: “Dry mouth just means drink more water.”
Fact: Water helps, but saliva stimulation (xylitol), fluoride, and gentle products designed for dry mouth make a bigger difference.
What to expect after you finish Accutane
Dryness usually subsides over weeks to a few months. Keep up your moisture and fluoride routine as your mouth rebalances. A post-treatment checkup is a great time to address any lingering sensitivity, refresh your hygiene plan, and, if you want, revisit whitening or elective cosmetic care.
Your quick-start checklist
– Tell your dentist/orthodontist you’re on isotretinoin
– Moisturize: water bottle, humidifier, lip balm, xylitol gum
– Protect enamel: fluoride toothpaste (1,000–1,500 ppm), sensitivity care, gentle brushing
– Rinse with water after acidic foods/drinks; brush later
– Book routine cleanings and ask about fluoride varnish
– Discuss the timing of elective extractions ahead of time (see our wisdom teeth removal guide for planning tips)
Conclusion
Accutane can dry out your mouth, but it doesn’t have to derail your oral health. Hydration, saliva-friendly habits, and fluoride form a powerful trio. Keep your regular dental visits, share your medication list, and let your dentist tailor comfort and prevention while you focus on clear skin and a healthy smile.
FAQ
Can I get a filling or cleaning while on Accutane?
Yes. Cleanings, X-rays, and fillings are typically fine. Tell your dental team about dryness or mouth sores so they can adjust comfort measures and aftercare.
Is wisdom teeth removal safe during treatment?
Many people do well with careful planning. Your dentist/oral surgeon may coordinate with your prescriber and choose timing that fits your health and schedule. Read up on wisdom teeth removal steps so you know what to expect.
What helps dry mouth the most?
Frequent sips of water, a humidifier at night, sugar-free xylitol gum/lozenges, alcohol-free moisturizing rinses, and fluoride products. For more, see our detailed dry mouth guide.
Which toothpaste should I use?
Choose fluoride (about 1,000–1,500 ppm) and a gentle formula. If you’re sensitive, try a sensitivity toothpaste and an extra-soft brush. Your dentist may recommend a prescription fluoride toothpaste if you’re cavity-prone.
Can I whiten my teeth on Accutane?
You can, but sensitivity risk is higher when tissues are dry. Many Canadians prefer to wait until after treatment, then use a dentist-guided plan to minimize zingers and protect enamel.
How do I manage pain after a dental procedure?
Follow your dentist’s instructions: rest, ice for swelling, soft foods, and approved pain relievers. This refresher on how to manage pain after dental procedures covers the basics and red flags to watch.
