A Periodontist in Chicago Warns That A Common Treatment for Acne May Cause Discoloration of the Gums
Modern day prescription medications have advanced our society far beyond what was imagined just a few short years ago. Progressive medicine has been able to cure and treat a great number of illnesses, ranging from numerous life threatening diseases, to making our everyday lives more comfortable with treatments for less serious ailments such as acne and headaches. Though not life threatening, severe acne can have long lasting and detrimental effects on the lives of individuals who suffer from it. Extreme acne can adversely affect your appearance as well as self confidence, frame of mind and social interactions. With the advancement of prescription drugs also comes newfound research surrounding the side effects of these medications and how these treatments can actually cause other health issues to occur. Now, more importantly than ever, doctors must work with consumers and other medical professionals to collaborate on side effects and interactions with other medications and procedures.
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology recently reported that Minocycline, a commonly prescribed antibiotic used to treat acne and rheumatoid arthritis has been shown to cause teeth and oral bone discoloration resulting in the gums appearing black and blue in color. More importantly, this discoloration has been known to be permanent with continued use of the medication and may not disappear after discontinuing prolonged use. The research indicates that patients who use Minocycline regularly are exposed to an increased risk in staining of the gums and periodontal bone, would could result in a visit to a periodontist in Chicago for treatment.
The study, conducted at the Mayo Clinic, found that 3 to 6 percent of long term users of Minocycline developed dental staining. At this point, the blackish blue staining of the gums does not appear to physically damage the teeth, bone or gum tissue. The oral bone can also become discolored and show through the gum tissue, causing a harsh effect on an individual’s smile and appearance.
Acne and periodontal disease are both bacterial infections that can drastically affect an individual’s smile and self confidence. Acne occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria causing the walls of the hair follicles to become inflamed and break. This causes pimples to form on the face and body and could result in severe facial scarring. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammation and bacterial infection in the gums and surrounding tissue and is the leading cause of adult tooth loss today.
This research implicating the correlation between the prescription acne treatment Minocycline and its drastic result in discoloration of the gums, emphasizes the importance of medical and dental professionals working together for the benefit of their patients. Prescription drugs oftentimes have side effects that affect oral health resulting in a visit to a periodontist in Chicago for treatment.
With today’s technology, it’s too easy to treat gum disease and no reason to let it ruin your smile. If you have questions regarding symptoms or treatment of gum disease with a laser, rather than a scalpel, contact Dr. Michael Marcus at (312) 263-6898 today for more information.
