Suboxone can damage the teeth when it dissolved in the mouth. In 2022, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued the warning that buprenorphine films as well as tablets are directly linked to cavities, numerous infections, and loss of teeth. The risk, however, is manageable: rinse thoroughly with water after every dose, wait 60 minutes prior to brushing the teeth, and consult a dentist on a regular basis. Do not stop taking Suboxone on your own; injectable options such as Sublocade avoid the mouth completely. 

What the Warning from the FDA States

On the 12th of January, 2022, the FDA officially issued a safety warning regarding buprenorphine medicines that fully dissolve under the tongue/against the cheek. That includes films of Suboxone and generic tablets of buprenorphine-nalaxone. 

The FDA found around 305 report cases related to dental issues, 131 out of which were serious. The list of problems included: 

• Tooth decay and cavities
• Oral infections
• Cracked/broken teeth
• Loss of teeth

In certain cases, the issued exhibited themselves in patients with no track record or medical history of dental issues. The FDA included the warning to all possible product label, but it still states the advantages of buprenorphine clearly outweighs the threats. 

Why Suboxone Affects Your Teeth

The Food and Drug Administration body links the damage caused to direct contact: the medication sits against the teeth as well as gums for numerous minutes while it slowly dissolves, each day. 

Other factors that can majorly add to the risk include:

• Dry Mouth: Opioids reduce the saliva produced, which usually safeguards the teeth.

• Past Drug Use: Many patients begin treatment with pre-existing dental damage caused due to opioids or other drugs. Learn more about this in “Does Drug Addiction Cause Tooth Decay?”

• Missed Dental Care: Periodic checkups usually lapse during active addiction.

How to Protect Your Teeth on Suboxone: 5 Steps

• Rinse After Every Dose: Once the tablet/film completely dissolves, take a big sip of water, swish it steadily and gently around your gums and teeth, and then swallow. 

• Wait 1 Hour Before Brushing Your Teeth: Brushing too quickly or soon can damage the teeth, as per the FDA.

• See a Dentist Soon After Beginning: Tell them you consume buprenorphine, and keep periodic checkups.

• Use Fluoride: Consult your dentist regarding fluoride toothpaste or a fluoride rinse. 

• Fight Dry Mouth: Drink enough water throughout the day in addition to chewing sugar-free gum. 

Should You Stop Consuming Suboxone Because of Your Teeth? 

No, at least not on your own. The FDA warns that stopping the consumption suddenly ca lead to intense withdrawal as well as relapse, which is a much bigger threat compared to dental issues. 

If you are concerned about your teeth, have a talk with your provider regarding switching to an injection. These do not touch your teeth in any way: 

Alliance MD provides all of the aforementioned options, and thus, you can switch without switching clinics. Injections also translate to no everyday dosing. Check out Sublocade cost with insurance for coverage details. 

Get In Touch with an AllianceMD Provider

Concerned regarding your teeth on Suboxone? Our providers can evaluate your particular dosing routine or discuss injectable avenues. We accept Indiana Medicaid (HIP included), Medicare, as well as the majority of other commercial plans. 

Book an appointment today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. Does Suboxone rot your teeth?

A. Suboxone can raise the threat of tooth decay when it is dissolved within the mouth. Rinse after every dose as well as regular dental care are proven to minimize the risk.

Q. Do Suboxone pills damage teeth or only films?

A. The FDA warning encompasses every buprenorphine product dissolved inside the mouth, both tablets as well as films.

Q. Does Suboxone affect your teeth?

A. No. Sublocade is simply an injection, and thus, it never touches your teeth.