Older adults are likely to take medications that can impact oral health and affect dental treatment. Common medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, diuretics, pain killers, and high blood pressure medications can cause side effects. For example:

• Dry mouth
• Soft tissue changes
• Taste changes
• Gingival overgrowth

Dry mouth (Xerostomia) leaves the mouth without enough saliva to wash away food and neutralize plaque, leaving you more susceptible to tooth decay and periodontal disease. In addition, dry mouth can cause sore throat, problems with speaking, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.