Ozempic and Wegovy have become household names for their dramatic weight-loss results, but their impact doesn’t stop at the scale. While many users are shedding pounds, few realize these drugs may also be silently damaging their oral health. From furry tongues to enamel erosion, the side effects aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be permanent.
As more people turn to semaglutide-based medications, dentists and doctors are starting to notice a troubling trend inside patients’ mouths.
The Silent Oral Toll of Weight-Loss Injections
The mechanism that makes Ozempic so effective for weight loss—slowing digestion—also comes with unintended consequences. For some, nausea and vomiting become frequent enough to expose teeth repeatedly to stomach acid. This acid wears down enamel, leading to irreversible damage, increased sensitivity, and a greater risk of cavities. And because this erosion can happen before symptoms show, it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
Another side effect is reduced saliva production, also known as dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids and washing away bacteria. Without it, the balance inside your mouth shifts dramatically. This dryness can contribute to halitosis, mouth sores, and in some cases, an odd layer of white or brown coating on the tongue, a phenomenon dubbed “furry tongue.”
Ozempic and the Hidden Damage to Oral Health
While Ozempic’s warning label lists gastrointestinal issues, it doesn’t fully capture how those problems ripple into oral health. Dehydration, common among users trying to cut back on food intake, only worsens the issue. Less fluid means less saliva, which means fewer natural defenses against acid and bacteria.
Experts are starting to recommend protective habits for those on semaglutide treatments. Staying hydrated is key, but so is timing your oral care. After vomiting, brushing right away can actually harm softened enamel. Dentists suggest waiting at least 30 minutes, or rinsing first with water or mouthwash before brushing. Sugar-free gum may also help stimulate saliva and keep your mouth’s ecosystem in check. Ozempic may help reshape your body, but it’s vital not to ignore what it might be doing to your mouth
