Medicines and Your Child's Teeth: Syrups, Inhalers and More

"He's been on antibiotics and cough syrup for two weeks. Is that bad for his teeth?" Medicines are often essential, and your child should always take what their doctor prescribes. But some medicines can affect teeth, and a few small habits can protect them without changing the treatment.

Sweet syrups

Many children's medicines are liquids sweetened with sugar to make them taste better. One dose is not a problem, but frequent doses over weeks or months, especially at bedtime, can add up, much like sipping a sweet drink.

Ways to protect teeth:

• Ask about sugar-free versions. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you if a sugar-free form, or a tablet for an older child, is suitable.
• Give it with meals when possible, if the instructions allow, so it joins the "sugar time" your child already has.
• Rinse or brush afterwards. A drink of water or a quick rinse after each dose helps wash sugar away.
• Be careful at bedtime. Saliva flow drops during sleep, so sugar left on teeth overnight does more harm. If a dose must be given after the evening brush, follow it with a drink of water or a rinse.
• Never stop or skip a medicine to protect teeth. Talk to the doctor instead.

Children with long-term conditions who take liquid medicines every day may benefit from extra prevention, such as fluoride varnish. Ask your dentist.

Asthma inhalers

Inhalers are very important for children with asthma, and good asthma control comes first. Some inhalers, especially steroid "preventer" inhalers, can leave medicine in the mouth and throat. Over time this may contribute to dryness, a sore mouth, or a fungal infection called thrush, which looks like white patches. Some inhaler powders are also slightly acidic or sweetened.

Simple steps help:

• Use a spacer if your child's doctor recommends one. It helps more medicine reach the lungs and less stay in the mouth.
• Rinse the mouth with water and spit after using a steroid inhaler. Younger children can simply have a drink of water.
• Keep up good brushing with fluoride toothpaste and regular check-ups.

Medicines that cause a dry mouth

Saliva protects teeth by washing away food and neutralising acid. Some medicines reduce saliva, including certain antihistamines for allergies, some ADHD medicines and some seizure medicines. A dry mouth can make cavities more likely.

Encourage regular sips of water through the day, avoid sipping sweet or fizzy drinks to relieve dryness, and let your dentist know, as they may suggest extra fluoride.

Iron drops and vitamins

Liquid iron supplements can leave grey or black stains on teeth. These stains are usually on the surface and can often be polished off by your dentist. To reduce staining, give drops towards the back of the mouth or as advised, and brush or rinse afterwards.

Chewable or gummy vitamins are often sweet and sticky. If your child takes them, give them with a meal rather than as a treat between meals.

Tell your dentist everything

Before any dental visit, tell the dentist about:

• All medicines, including inhalers, vitamins, herbal remedies and anything taken "only sometimes"
• Medical conditions, such as asthma, heart conditions, bleeding problems, diabetes or allergies
• Allergies to medicines, including antibiotics and latex

This helps your dentist plan safe care, choose suitable medicines, and spot any mouth changes linked to treatment. Bringing the medicine boxes or a photo of the labels can be easier than remembering names.