Lithium compounds are widely used in healthcare as prescribed medication. This element plays a significant role in managing certain health conditions, with its therapeutic benefits recognized globally. Understanding lithium treatment, including its potential effects, is important for individuals undergoing this therapy. This article explores the relationship between lithium and oral health, detailing how this medication can influence your teeth and gums.
Lithium’s Therapeutic Use
Lithium is primarily known for its use as a mood stabilizer, particularly in treating bipolar disorder. It helps to prevent and manage episodes of both mania and depression, working by decreasing abnormal activity in the brain. It remains a commonly prescribed medication for long-term mood stabilization.
Beyond bipolar disorder, lithium is sometimes used “off-label” for other conditions, including certain types of depression, schizophrenia, and impulse control disorders, especially when other treatments have not been effective. This means its use for these conditions is not specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Patients typically take lithium orally, and its effectiveness often requires consistent, daily dosing, with treatment sometimes continuing for months, years, or even lifelong, depending on the individual’s needs.
Oral Health Concerns
Individuals taking lithium may experience various oral health changes, with dry mouth, or xerostomia, being a common side effect. This occurs due to reduced saliva production, hindering natural lubrication. Saliva performs several protective functions, including neutralizing acids produced by bacteria, providing antimicrobial properties, and aiding in the remineralization of tooth enamel.
A decrease in salivary flow significantly increases the risk of dental caries. The reduced buffering capacity of saliva allows acids to demineralize tooth enamel at an accelerated rate. This increases susceptibility to cavities, particularly at the gum line.
Dry mouth also contributes to a higher risk of gingivitis and can progress to more severe gum disease. Without sufficient saliva to wash away food debris and bacteria, plaque accumulates more readily, leading to inflammation and potential infection of the gums. The gums and other oral tissues may become red, swollen, and sometimes ulcerated, which can cause discomfort and make regular oral hygiene practices painful.
Beyond xerostomia, other less common oral effects have been reported with lithium use. Some individuals may experience taste disturbances, such as a metallic taste, or a change in the ability to taste food. Stomatitis, characterized by swollen, sore, or red oral tissues, can also occur, making eating and speaking uncomfortable. Swelling of the salivary glands has also been noted.
Proactive Dental Care
Consistent oral hygiene is important for individuals taking lithium. Brushing teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste helps protect tooth enamel. Cleaning between teeth once a day using floss or a water flosser removes plaque and food particles from areas a toothbrush cannot reach.
Using fluoride rinses or gels provide additional protection against tooth decay, especially with dry mouth. Over-the-counter or prescription products like saliva substitutes or moisturizing gels can help alleviate dry mouth discomfort and support oral health. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can also stimulate saliva flow.
Dietary considerations also play a role. Limiting the consumption of sugary foods and drinks can reduce the risk of dental caries, as these provide fuel for acid-producing bacteria in the mouth. Maintaining adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also important, as dehydration can worsen dry mouth symptoms and affect lithium levels.
Open communication with your prescribing physician and dentist is important when taking lithium. Informing your dentist about your medication allows for tailored advice and care, recognizing potential oral side effects. Discussing any oral symptoms with your physician can help manage side effects and ensure overall treatment effectiveness.