Gabapentin & my teeth
 

Please advise.

I have been taking Gabapentin for nearly 6 months. I have noticed recently that the gums in my mouth have reclined or receded. The teeth seem to be showing through more than they ever have. As I have never noticed this before. Could this medication be causing this? If so, is there anything I can do about it?

Some medications are known to cause dry mouth, which can lead to receding gums and dental decay; opioids are notorious for this. If this is what's happening, keeping your mouth moist should help. Drink plenty of water during the day, try to sleep with your mouth closed (cpap users are familiar with chin straps for this) and keep a bottle/glass of water near your bed, so if you wake up and have a dry mouth, you can take a few sips to keep things moist.

Doc