Drug-Induced Oral Complications

Book excerpt: This book provides detailed information on the prevalence and manifestations of the most important oral complications associated with different drug treatments, focusing especially on recently developed therapies. Among the diverse adverse drug reactions covered are gingival overgrowth, ulcerations, lichenoid reactions, pigmentation, and bullous reactions. The potential direct toxic effects on bone of drugs that prevent bone mass loss, such as bisphosphonates and denosumab, are fully examined, as is the occurrence of spontaneous oral bleeding in patients receiving antithrombotic therapies. Further chapters focus on drug-induced taste disorders and salivary gland disturbances, including xerostomia, swelling, and hypersalivation. The enhanced risk of oral infections when using chemotherapy and biotherapy is addressed, and the closing chapter examines drug-related perioral and facial complications. This book is a collaborative work that brings together clinicians, surgeons, and specialists in drug safety surveillance. It will be of value for all dental and medical practitioners who encounter these complications in their clinical practice.