The effect of medications on young teeth

Pediatric Dentist Michelle Kelman, DDS, shares advice for parents on how medications such as cough syrups and inhalers can affect your young child's teeth
The Effects of Medications On Children's Teeth - Kids In The House
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The effect of medications on young teeth

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Unfortunately, medication can affect the health of your child's teeth. For example, many cough syrups and medications do contain sugar. Chronic use of these medications, may affect the teeth. If you can, I would always request a sugar free solution. If that's not a possibility, I would make sure to always rinse the child's mouth with water following giving them medication; or if possible, to brush their teeth immediately. The same goes for the use of an inhaler. It is important to rinse the mouth after the use of an inhaler because so many allergy medications or asthma, can cause dry mouth, which can lead to plaque. If a child is sick and they throw up, it is important to have the child rinse with water so that acid doesn't stay on the teeth and further demineralize it as well.

Pediatric Dentist Michelle Kelman, DDS, shares advice for parents on how medications such as cough syrups and inhalers can affect your young child's teeth

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Michelle Kelman, DDS

Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Michelle M. Kelman is a specialist in pediatric and adolescent dentistry for healthy children and children with complex medical history. Dr. Michelle is on the Pediatric Surgical Team and Craniofacial Team at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and on faculty at the UCLA School of Dentistry, Pediatrics. Dr. Michelle has lectured internationally and taught continuing education courses on topics including pediatric patient behavior management and advancements in pediatric dentistry. These advancements include everything from equipment technology to introducing complementary and alternative therapies for your child's health needs. Active in the community, Dr. Michelle has offered numerous pediatric oral healthcare presentations to community groups, professional organizations and various healthcare professionals around the country with a special emphasis on pediatric behavior management and dental treatment using both traditional and natural methods for children with various medical conditions.

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