Ozempic and Your Teeth: A Canadian Dental Guide
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and similar drugs are changing diabetes and weight‑management care in Canada. But if you’re on one, you may wonder: does it affect my teeth and gums? Here’s a clear, dentist-approved guide for Canadians.
Does Ozempic affect oral health?
Yes—indirectly. GLP‑1 medications can cause dry mouth, nausea, reflux, and dietary changes. Dry mouth raises cavity and gum‑disease risk, while reflux can erode enamel. These meds also matter when planning dental sedation. Tell your dentist so your care is safer and smoother.
Quick primer: What are GLP‑1 medications?
GLP‑1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide) help control blood sugar and appetite. In Canada, they’re prescribed mainly for diabetes and, increasingly, weight management. Better blood sugar usually means better gum health—great news—yet some side effects can affect your mouth.
Common mouth‑related effects Canadians report
1) Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Dry mouth is one of the most important oral side effects. Saliva protects teeth by washing away food, buffering acids, and helping remineralize enamel. Low saliva increases cavity risk, gum inflammation, bad breath, and mouth sores.
Practical help: sip water often, use sugar‑free xylitol gum or lozenges, choose alcohol‑free rinses, and talk to your dentist if dryness persists. You can also review detailed tips to prevent dry mouth.
2) Nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux
Early in treatment, some people feel queasy or have reflux because GLP‑1s slow stomach emptying. Stomach acid can weaken enamel. If vomiting occurs, don’t brush right away. Rinse with water, then a fluoride or baking‑soda rinse, and brush 30–60 minutes later.
3) Dietary shifts
Many people eat smaller portions, snack less, or prefer softer foods. Fewer sugary snacks can help teeth. But sipping sweetened drinks or sucking on candies to ease nausea can undo those gains. Keep water handy and choose tooth‑friendly snacks (cheese, yogurt, nuts, crunchy veggies).
4) Gum health and diabetes
Chronic high blood sugar increases gum‑disease risk. GLP‑1s can improve control, which may help gums. Still, daily care and regular cleanings matter. Learn more in our explainer on diabetes and oral health.
Sedation, surgery, and dental appointments on GLP‑1s
If you’re having dental work that involves sedation (nitrous, oral, or IV), or a longer procedure, your dentist needs to know about your medication and timing. Because GLP‑1s can delay stomach emptying, some patients may face a higher aspiration risk with deeper sedation. Your dentist and, if needed, the anesthesiologist will review your case and coordinate safe instructions tailored to your health history and procedure type.
Good to do now:
- Bring an up‑to‑date medication list to every visit.
- Tell your dentist if you’ve had recent nausea, vomiting, or reflux.
- Follow pre‑procedure eating and drinking guidance exactly.
Curious about the options and what to expect? See our overview of sedation dentistry.
Daily steps to protect your smile on Ozempic
1) Keep saliva flowing
Drink water often, especially between meals. Choose sugar‑free xylitol gum or lozenges after snacks. Use a bedside humidifier if indoor air feels dry in winter.
2) Upgrade your basics
Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush (an electric model with a pressure sensor helps). Floss daily or use a water flosser/interdental brushes. Consider a fluoride mouthrinse at night if you’re prone to cavities.
3) Be gentle after reflux or vomiting
Rinse right away with water (and, if you like, a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water). Wait 30–60 minutes to brush so you don’t scrub softened enamel.
4) Snack smart during queasy spells
Skip sugary candies and acidic drinks. Try sugar‑free ginger chews, cold water, milk, or small protein snacks like yogurt or cheese. If you rely on liquid meal replacements, choose lower‑sugar options and rinse with water after.
5) Book regular cleanings and checkups
Most adults need a preventive visit about every six months; some need 3–4‑month intervals if decay or gum‑disease risk is high. Your dentist will tailor a schedule for you. Consistent visits catch problems early and protect enamel and gums while your body adjusts to medication.
What to tell your dentist or hygienist
Transparency helps your dental team plan safe, comfortable care. Share:
- Which GLP‑1 you take and your dose (Ozempic/semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide, etc.).
- When you last took it and how often you dose.
- Any nausea, reflux, vomiting, or dry‑mouth symptoms.
- Your diabetes status and recent control, if applicable.
- All medications, supplements, and allergies.
“Good diabetes control is associated with better oral health outcomes, including reduced risk of periodontal disease.” — Canadian Dental Association
Why this matters in Canada
Roughly 8–10% of Canadian adults live with diabetes, and prescriptions for GLP‑1 medicines are rising. That means more Canadians will bring these meds—and their benefits and side effects—into the dental chair. The bottom line: you can keep your mouth healthy on GLP‑1s with simple, steady habits and good communication.
Red flags: Call your dentist or seek urgent care
- Facial swelling, fever, or severe tooth pain.
- Vomiting that doesn’t settle and signs of dehydration.
- Burning mouth, mouth sores, or dry mouth that won’t improve.
- New tooth sensitivity that lingers or worsens.
Sample routine you can start today
Morning: Brush with fluoride toothpaste, tongue clean, and floss (or water floss). Pack a refillable water bottle. If you’re queasy, keep sugar‑free xylitol gum handy.
Midday: Rinse with water after coffee, tea, or a sweetened drink. Chew sugar‑free gum for 10–20 minutes after meals to boost saliva.
Evening: Brush and floss again. If decay risk is higher, add a fluoride rinse before bed. Use a humidifier if indoor air is dry.
Ongoing: Keep dental visits regular. If dry mouth is a problem, take a deeper dive into prevention strategies in this guide.
Conclusion
GLP‑1 medications like Ozempic can support better overall health and, with strong daily habits, a healthier smile too. Watch for dry mouth and reflux, keep your dental team in the loop, and stick to simple routines—your teeth and gums will thank you.
FAQ
1) Does Ozempic cause cavities?
Not directly. But dry mouth, reflux, and frequent sipping of sweet drinks can raise cavity risk. Manage dryness, rinse after acids, and follow daily fluoride brushing and flossing.
2) Should I stop Ozempic before dental work?
Never stop a prescription without medical advice. For procedures—especially with sedation—tell your dentist what you take and when. Your dental and medical teams will guide timing and fasting based on your case.
3) Can Ozempic help my gums by improving blood sugar?
Better glucose control is linked to better gum health. Still, brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are essential to prevent gum inflammation and bone loss.
4) My mouth feels very dry. What works best?
Hydration, sugar‑free xylitol gum/lozenges, alcohol‑free rinses, a humidifier, and review of medications with your providers. See more ideas in our article on how to prevent dry mouth.
5) Is dental sedation safe if I’m on a GLP‑1?
It can be, with planning. Tell your dentist about all meds and recent GI symptoms. They’ll choose a safe approach, provide fasting guidance, and coordinate with anesthesia as needed. Learn more about sedation dentistry.
6) I’m losing weight and eating less. Do I still need checkups?
Yes. Diet changes don’t replace cleanings and exams. Your dentist can spot early enamel wear from reflux, treat dry‑mouth‑related issues, and tailor prevention to your new routine.
