Impact of Ozempic and Wegovy on Oral Health: Dry Mouth, Bad Breath, and Tooth Damage

Ozempic and Wegovy are well-known for their effectiveness in aiding weight loss, often hailed as miracle drugs in the obesity treatment landscape. However, as their popularity increases, so do reports of unintended side effects affecting oral health. These side effects include dry mouth, bad breath, and potential tooth damage.

One notable condition associated with these medications is "Ozempic face," characterized by a sunken, hollow appearance in the face, along with increased signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin. This occurs because semaglutide—the active ingredient in both drugs—acts broadly on fat tissues across the body, including facial fat. Nevertheless, the drugs' impact isn't limited to facial aesthetics; they can also cause oral health issues.

Dry Mouth: Semaglutide influences salivary glands by decreasing saliva production, a condition known as hyposalivation. Animal studies suggest the drug may also make saliva stickier, resulting in less effective moisture in the mouth. Additionally, GLP-1 receptor agonists can reduce water intake by affecting brain areas responsible for thirst, which further exacerbates dry mouth. A lack of saliva leads to xerostomia, causing discomfort and potential oral health complications.

Bad Breath: Reduced saliva flow fosters an environment conducive to bacterial growth, including bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus, and Porphyromonas gingivalis, which are known for causing halitosis and cavities. Moreover, with less saliva cleaning the tongue, a coated or "furry" tongue can develop, increasing bacterial buildup and leading to persistent bad breath.

Tooth Damage: Vomiting is a common side effect of Ozempic and Wegovy due to slowed gastric emptying, which can cause nausea and vomiting. Repeated vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid—primarily hydrochloric acid—leading to enamel erosion, especially on the back teeth near the tongue. Over time, this acid attack can cause significant structural damage. Moreover, vomiting reduces bodily fluids and saliva, diminishing the mouth’s natural ability to neutralize acids and protect teeth.

Preventive Measures: To mitigate these effects, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during the day, is vital. Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, and using mouthwash or probiotic supplements may help reduce bad breath. Maintaining good oral hygiene—including brushing, reducing acidic and sugary foods, and regular dental check-ups—is essential.

Women may be more susceptible to these side effects due to hormonal differences influencing gut and oral health. If vomiting occurs, avoid brushing immediately to prevent spreading acids across tooth surfaces; rinsing with water or mouthwash and waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing is recommended. While most side effects tend to resolve after stopping the medication, some damage to teeth may be permanent.

Understanding these potential risks emphasizes the importance of dental health monitoring when using semaglutide-based drugs. Consulting with healthcare and dental professionals can help manage and prevent these oral health issues effectively.