Is Ozempic Ruining Your Smile? The Hidden Oral Side Effects of Weight Loss Drugs

Weight loss is never easy, but two medications, Ozempic and Wegovy, have brought new hope. Developed initially to manage diabetes, these drugs are now widely used for their dramatic weight loss effects. Many people have found them to be life-changing (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Dry mouth, bad breath and tooth damage: the effects Ozempic and Wegovy can have on your mouth

Go to source). But with success stories come surprising concerns. As users shed weight, they are also noticing unexpected changes to their appearance and oral health. From hollow cheeks and sagging skin, commonly called “Ozempic face,” to dry mouth, bad breath, and even tooth damage, these side effects are catching many off guard.

Let’s explore what’s really happening in the body and how you can protect your smile.

What is Ozempic Face?

A common complaint among users is a sunken, tired look in the face, now nicknamed “Ozempic face.” When the body loses fat quickly, it doesn’t just target areas like the stomach or thighs. It also burns fat from the cheeks and under the eyes. This leads to looser skin, more noticeable wrinkles, and a more aged appearance.

The active ingredient, semaglutide, works throughout the entire body. That means fat reduction happens everywhere, not just where you want it. While not dangerous, these visible changes can be emotionally difficult for people who expected only positive results from their weight loss journey.

Dry Mouth and Dehydration

Semaglutide may also reduce how much saliva your body makes. Some users experience a sticky or dry feeling in the mouth, which doctors refer to as dry mouth. The drug might make saliva thicker or reduce thirst, causing people to drink less water.

Saliva plays a key role in keeping the mouth healthy. It washes away bacteria, protects teeth, and helps prevent cavities. Without enough saliva, harmful bacteria can grow and damage the teeth and gums. Though it might seem like a small issue, dry mouth can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated.

Bad Breath and Bacteria Build-up

When your mouth is dry, it becomes easier for bacteria to multiply. Saliva normally washes away food particles and keeps harmful bacteria under control. Without it, bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis can grow and cause bad breath. Some users also report a coated or “furry” tongue. This buildup of bacteria, dead cells, and debris not only smells bad but can also increase the risk of gum disease and cavities. Drinking water and practicing good hygiene can help prevent these issues.

Tooth Damage from Vomiting

One of the known side effects of these weight loss drugs is nausea and vomiting, especially in the early stages. Frequent vomiting exposes the teeth to stomach acid, which can slowly wear down the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth.

The inner surfaces of your teeth, especially those facing the tongue, are most at risk. If vomiting becomes a regular issue and is combined with dry mouth, the damage can be worse. This is because saliva normally helps neutralize acid and rebuild the enamel surface.

To protect your teeth, don’t brush immediately after vomiting. Rinse with water or mouthwash first, then wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

How to Protect Your Mouth While on Semaglutide

The good news is that you can take simple steps to prevent or reduce these side effects.

• Drink plenty of water Stay hydrated throughout the day. Water helps with saliva production and keeps harmful bacteria under control.
• Chew sugar-free gum This stimulates saliva flow and helps reduce dry mouth. Gum with xylitol or eucalyptus may also help freshen your breath.
• Practice good oral hygiene Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash. If you vomit, rinse your mouth with water and wait before brushing.
• Eat smaller meals This can help reduce nausea and vomiting, especially in women who may be more sensitive to digestive side effects.
• Try probiotics Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or taking supplements may help balance bacteria in your mouth and gut, reducing bad breath.

Protect Your Smile as You Slim Down

Ozempic and Wegovy have changed how we approach weight loss, offering real hope to millions. But the journey comes with trade-offs, including effects on your appearance and oral health that can be easy to overlook.

The key is awareness and prevention. By staying hydrated, practicing good dental care, and speaking with a healthcare provider when needed, you can manage these side effects and keep your smile healthy.

Weight loss should help you feel better, not create new problems. With the right habits, you can enjoy the benefits of these medications while protecting your confidence and well-being.

Reference:

1. Dry mouth, bad breath and tooth damage: the effects Ozempic and Wegovy can have on your mouth - (https://theconversation.com/dry-mouth-bad-breath-and-tooth-damage-the-effects-ozempic-and-wegovy-can-have-on-your-mouth-257859)

Source-Medindia