Ozempic users might want to take a good look at their teeth.
Dentists across the country are flagging a new complication from GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy: severe oral health issues. The trend has become so widespread that it’s earned a nickname, and experts are urging patients to take it seriously.
“The active ingredient, semaglutide, can reduce saliva flow by affecting the salivary glands,” explained Adam Taylor, an anatomy professor at Lancaster University, to The Conversation. “It also makes people feel less thirsty, which means they’re not drinking enough water. That combination can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of cavities and gum disease.”
Cosmetic dentist Dr. Rajpal Anjali says she’s seeing more patients dealing with tooth sensitivity, receding gums, and visible enamel damage.
“Most users tolerate GLP-1 medications like Ozempic without serious oral health issues, but a subset experience notable side effects such as dry mouth, nausea, or vomiting, which can indirectly affect teeth and gums,” she shared.
Acid reflux and vomiting, other potential side effects, can erode enamel further. And unfortunately, once the damage is done, quitting the drug may not reverse it.
“Dentists should also be aware of these potential risks and monitor patients accordingly, especially in the first few months after starting the medication,” Anjali said.
To combat “Ozempic teeth,” Taylor recommends drinking more water and chewing sugar-free gum to boost saliva. And most importantly, patients should let their dentist know they’re taking these medications so their oral care can be adjusted.
