The Effects of Drugs Used by Children with Chronic Systemic Diseases on the Oral Cavity: Traditional Review

Children with chronic diseases are prescribed various drugs by pediatricians. In children with chronic systemic disease, daily use of pediatric liquid form medications may be routine. Drugs such as analgesics, antibiotics, antihistamines, antiepileptics, multivitamins and antitussives are chronically prescribed to children. Sweeteners and sugars are added to make the flavors of the drugs prescribed by pediatricians in suspension forms acceptable to pediatric patients. The high sugars such as sucrose and glucose in the content of these drugs cause the dissolution of tooth enamel by lowering the pH of the dental biofilm as a result of bacterial fermentation. These drugs can cause tooth erosion due to their acidic properties and reducing saliva flow as a side effect. In addition to their corrosive and cariogenic properties, pediatric drugs also have side effects such as periodontal disease, changing orthodontic tooth movement, decreasing or increasing saliva flow, and causing tooth discoloration. Various recommendations can be made to parents, dentists and pharmaceutical companies in terms of preventive measures related to chronic drug use. In children with chronic drug use, rinsing the mouth with water after taking these drugs may not be enough to prevent tooth damage. Regular topical fluoride applications and the addition of calcium, fluoride or phosphate to drug formulations can be recommended for these patients as reduce the risk of dental caries and erosion. The aim of this review is to evaluate the effects of frequently used drugs on oral and dental health in pediatric patients based on current literature research. Copyright © 2023 by Türkiye Klinikleri.