Pharmacological Implications in Dental Medicine.

Abstract

Drugs are often designed to target a certain molecule or chemical in the body in order to adjust and regulate its quantity. As a result, the body will be able to return to a normal functioning environment. Unfortunately, the mechanism of the drug may cause it to simultaneously affect another molecule or substance in the body, ultimately resulting in unwanted side effects. This paper will describe the side effects of certain drugs on oral health. It will specifically discuss the effects of inhaled corticosteroid inhalers on oral candidiasis as well as the link between bisphosphonates and osteonecrosis on the jawbone. Gingival overgrowth caused by medications will also be studied, particularly in relation to phenytoin for those with epilepsy.