GLP-1 Medications & Your Oral Health: What You Need to Know

Written By Sarah Javaheri

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are becoming increasingly popular for treating type 2 diabetes and weight loss. While these medications offer important health benefits, they can also come with oral health considerations that are worth discussing during your dental visits.

At Agoura Dental Arts, we’re here to help you stay informed and protect your smile while achieving your overall health goals.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Affect Oral Health?

While GLP-1s are generally well-tolerated, there are several potential side effects and factors that could impact your mouth, teeth, and gums:

1. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

  • A common side effect of GLP-1s is dry mouth, which reduces saliva and increases the risk of:

    • Cavities

    • Gum disease

    • Bad breath

    • Oral infections

2. Nausea & Vomiting

  • These side effects can expose teeth to stomach acid, potentially leading to:

    • Enamel erosion

    • Tooth sensitivity

    • Increased risk of decay

3. Dietary Changes

  • Weight loss and reduced appetite may result in nutritional deficiencies, such as lower intake of calcium or vitamins essential for gum and bone health.

  • Liquid or soft diets can also be higher in sugars or acids, impacting teeth.

4. Delayed Gastric Emptying

  • Slower digestion may alter the oral microbiome, especially if patients eat smaller, more frequent meals or experience reflux.

How to Protect Your Smile While on GLP-1s

Whether you’ve just started a GLP-1 medication or have been on one for a while, proactive dental care is key.

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to combat dry mouth.

  • Sugar-free gum or lozenges can help stimulate saliva.

Prioritize Oral Hygiene

  • Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste.

  • Floss or use a water flosser to clean between teeth.

  • Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel.

Manage Nausea Carefully

  • If vomiting occurs, rinse with water or a baking soda solution first — avoid brushing immediately after vomiting to prevent enamel damage.

Stay Up to Date on Dental Visits

  • Regular check-ups allow us to monitor changes, offer preventive care, and adjust recommendations as needed.


    What Services We Offer at Agoura Dental Arts

    At our office, we support patients on GLP-1s with the following services:

    • Dry Mouth Evaluation & Management
      Custom strategies to reduce discomfort and cavity risk.

    • Fluoride Treatments
      Strengthen enamel and reduce decay risk from dry mouth or acid exposure.

    • Enamel Erosion Monitoring
      Digital imaging and diagnostics to detect early signs of damage.

    • Nightguards (if reflux is present)
      To protect against acid erosion during sleep.

Your Smile Deserves Total-Body Care

GLP-1 medications are a powerful tool for better health, but your mouth shouldn’t be left behind. At Agoura Dental Arts, we take a whole-body approach to dentistry — and we’re happy to work with your medical team to support your overall wellness journey.

Have questions or need a personalized oral health plan while on GLP-1s?
We’re here to help. Book your appointment or call us at 818-350-3328 today.

Sarah Javaheri
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