Dental Medications (cont.)

Antifungals

Antifungals are used for the treatment of candidiasis in the oral cavity. Certain antifungal such as nystatin (Mycostatin) is used to treat Candida albicans infection in the mouth, including thrush, and denture stomatitis. Nystatin (Mycostatin) comes in lozenges/troches and oral suspension. When taking the oral suspension, patients are instructed to take one half of the dose in each side of mouth, retaining the suspension as long as possible by swishing it around, before swallowing.

Other dental medications

Fluorides

Fluoride which is available in most over-the-counter toothpastes, is used to prevent tooth decay. Prescription strength fluoride (Acidul) is also available if prescribed by a physician.

Antiseptics

Antiseptics are available as over-the-counter mouth rinses that are used to reduce plaque and gingivitis and kill germs that cause bad breath.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) is used for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. It works by relaxing the patient during dental procedures such as temporomandibular joint disorders.

Saliva substitutes

Saliva substitutes such as Moi-Stir, Mouth Kote, Optimoist, Saliva Substitute, Salivar, Salix, and Xero-Lube are used for treating dry mouth, an occasional complication of autoimmune diseases or occasionally unassociated with other diseases. They usually come as sprays and are used as needed.

Last Editorial Review: 7/14/2008