{"id":83423,"date":"2026-11-04T18:27:25","date_gmt":"2026-11-04T17:27:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dentaly.org\/us\/?p=83423"},"modified":"2026-11-04T18:27:28","modified_gmt":"2026-11-04T17:27:28","slug":"dry-mouth-enamel-wear","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dentaly.org\/us\/dry-mouth-enamel-wear\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Dentists Are Seeing More Dry Mouth and Enamel Wear: What Patients Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Millions of Americans are currently taking a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound for diabetes and weight loss. Although most people know these medications are for weight loss and blood sugar control, dentists are starting to notice an increase in dry mouths, increased sensitivity and early signs of enamel wearing in patients taking GLP-1 medications.<\/p>

Although \u2018Ozempic teeth\u2019 is becoming a popular term online, it is not a medical diagnosis and there is not a great deal of research on the topic. However, the reasons why this can happen are easy to understand and mostly can be managed.<\/p>

Why GLP-1 medications can affect your teeth<\/h2>

GLP-1 medications mimic a hormone in our gut to slow digestion and make you feel full. This explainer gives a simple overview of how GLP-1 medications work<\/a> and the differences between semaglutide and tirzepatide. There are several side effects these medications can cause that can affect your teeth:<\/p>

Nausea and vomiting.<\/strong> These are the most common side effects. In the main trial looking at the effects of semaglutide for weight loss (STEP 1), around 44% of patients experienced nausea and 25% vomiting, compared to 17% and 7% on the placebo. Most cases are mild and happen while the dose is being increased. Stomach acid is strong enough to weaken tooth enamel.<\/p>

Reflux.<\/strong> Due to the slowing of gastric emptying, some people experience heartburn and regurgitation into the throat. This can cause erosion of the back of the teeth.<\/p>

Dry mouth.<\/strong> Patients and dentists have reported experiencing dry mouths. This can occur due to people simply not drinking as much. As well as reducing hunger these medications can reduce the feeling of thirst. Saliva helps protect our teeth by clearing food debris and buffering acids. Therefore, having less saliva will increase the risk of cavities and gum issues.<\/p>

Reduced eating.<\/strong> The whole point of the medication is to reduce eating. However, some people end up snacking on soft, sugary and acidic foods and drinks because other foods don\u2019t sound appealing. Diets low in calories can lack essential nutrients for healthy gums.<\/p>

While there are no large studies showing that GLP-1 medications damage teeth, what we know comes from their well-documented gastrointestinal side effects and from what dentists are seeing in patients who take them. You can find a summary of semaglutide\u2019s known side effects<\/a> and how often they occur.<\/p>

What to look out for<\/h2>