We ask every patient to bring a list or let us know what medications they are taking due to the side effects which can occur in the mouth with certain medications. There are over 1800 drugs which cause dry mouth.Dry mouth can lead to tooth decay and gum disease due to the lack of moisture and lubricant which coats the teeth and makes them less likely for bacteria to adhere to the surface. Some medications cause an increase in bleeding of the gums due to a decrease in the ability to clot. Bleeding gums resemble a sign of gum disease but if it is only a result of medication then we can potentially rule out gum disease. The side effects of medications vary person to person which is why we request to know which medications a patient takes.