Many people taking Suboxone for opioid use disorder (OUD) worry about their dental health. While most people don't experience serious oral side effects, it's a common concern.

Here's what you need to know about Suboxone, teeth, and how to protect your smile during recovery.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a combination of two medicines: buprenorphine and naloxone. It was first approved in 2002 in tablet form and later released as a film strip in 2015. Most people today take the film version.

Suboxone isn’t swallowed like a pill, even when it is in tablet form. Instead, it’s absorbed through the mouth, either by placing it under the tongue or between the cheek and gum. This method helps the medication get into the bloodstream quickly and bypass the digestive system.

How does Suboxone cause dental side effects?

There are a few possible reasons Suboxone may affect your dental health, including:

• Acidity — Suboxone is acidic, and when it dissolves in your mouth, it can make it a more acidic environment for a while. More acid in your mouth over time can soften the outer layer of your teeth.
• Dry mouth — Suboxone may reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth. Saliva is important because it helps keep your mouth healthy. It helps wash away food particles and harmful germs, and also neutralizes acid. When your mouth is dry, this job is harder to do.
• Poor oral hygiene habits — When you’re in recovery, you’re often dealing with a lot of big changes and challenges. It’s completely understandable that sometimes, things like regularly brushing and flossing slip your mind; but it’s a few important minutes to help protect your smile.

When these factors combine, it can increase the chance of dental issues like cavities or gum problems.

What is the Suboxone dental lawsuit?

You may have come across news about a lawsuit related to Suboxone and dental problems, especially since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in 2022 about dental problems linked to medications like Suboxone that are dissolved in the mouth. This included reports of tooth decay, infections, and even tooth loss. Following this, some patients filed lawsuits, claiming they weren't warned about these risks.

These lawsuits don't mean that Suboxone is unsafe - but they do raise awareness about the importance of oral health for people in treatment. It’s based on the idea that the makers of Suboxone should have warned people more clearly about the potential for serious dental issues linked to the medication.

It’s important to understand that a lawsuit doesn’t automatically mean that everyone who uses Suboxone will have dental problems. Instead, it highlights that there’s a concern and a discussion happening about the potential link between the medication and certain oral health issues.

This increased awareness can be a good thing, as it encourages everyone to pay closer attention to dental health. It includes a recommendation for a dental visit within 6 months of starting Suboxone and every 6–12 months thereafter- which is standard dental care.

What kind of dental issues may be linked to Suboxone?

Suboxone doesn’t affect everyone the same way, but some people may experience dental issues, such as:

• Dry mouth and saliva reduction
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Less saliva to neutralize acid
• Greater risk of oral infections
• Gum and enamel health
• Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
• Weakened enamel from acid
• Increased risk of cavities
• Tooth damage
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Tooth loss in severe cases

Some of these problems can be mild, while others may require dental procedures to fix them. But the good news is that most people don’t have serious dental issues from Suboxone, especially when they practice good oral care.

Is Suboxone safe to use?

Yes, Suboxone is considered safe and effective for most people. More than 2 million Americans currently use medications like Suboxone to treat opioid use disorder. It saves lives and helps people get back on track.

While dental side effects are possible, most people using Suboxone don't experience serious issues, especially when they take steps to care for their teeth. With the right guidance, you can protect your smile while staying committed to your recovery. For most people, the benefits outweigh the risks.

Tips for reducing dental problems while taking Suboxone

The best news is that there are many things you can do to help protect your teeth and gums while using Suboxone. Being aware and taking these simple steps can make a big difference.

• Follow proper techniques for taking Suboxone

Your health care provider will give you specific instructions on how to take your Suboxone. Usually, this involves letting it dissolve completely under your tongue or between your cheek and gum. You don’t want to chew or swallow the tablet or film.

• Alternate placement

If you usually place the tablet or film in one spot, try switching sides. This can help prevent too much exposure to the medication in one particular area of your mouth.

• Rinse your mouth

After the Suboxone has fully dissolved, gently rinse your mouth with plain water. This can help reduce the acidity in your mouth.

• Wait to brush

It’s generally recommended to wait at least one hour after your Suboxone dose before brushing your teeth. Your enamel may be temporarily softened by the acidity. When you brush your teeth after taking Suboxone, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle, but make sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth.

• Visit your dentist regularly

Your dentist is a key partner in keeping your mouth healthy. Make sure they know you’re using Suboxone so they can be extra aware of any potential changes in your oral health.

Regular checkups and cleanings allow your dentist to catch any problems early and provide guidance on how to best care for your teeth and gums. Don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you may have.

• Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth moist and encourage the production of saliva.

• Consider xylitol products

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that can help stimulate saliva flow and balance the pH in your mouth. Chew gum, use mints, or mouthwash after your Suboxone dose and throughout the day.

• Limit sugary and acidic foods

Foods like candy, soda, and citrus can make enamel erosion worse. Try to limit your intake of these foods by enjoying them in moderation.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help reduce the risk of experiencing dental problems while on your journey with Suboxone. Remember, you’re not alone, and open communication with your health care provider and dentist is key to staying healthy overall. Your smile is important, and with good care, it can stay bright and strong.

Groups can help you move forward with confidence by understanding Suboxone and your smile

Your recovery matters. Suboxone is a lifesaving medication that helps people manage OUD and take back control of their lives. While there may be some risk of dental side effects, those risks are manageable with the right care and support.

The most important thing is to stay committed to your recovery journey while also caring for your body, including your teeth and gums.

At Groups, we believe that healing happens through connection, compassion, and community. Our team offers support not just for addiction treatment, but for whole-person health, including challenges like managing oral care, mental wellness, and staying on Suboxone safely. You’re not alone. If you’re concerned about dental health while taking Suboxone, we’re here to help.

Give our Recovery Support Specialists a call today for more information or to begin your recovery. We provide treatment across the country — and we’re always expanding. See if we offer care in your state, either online or at one of our 130+ local offices. If Groups doesn't offer treatment in your area, you can locate other treatment options here.