Ozempic Teeth: Dentists Explain What It Is

Ozempic has been a hot-button topic recently. The prescription drug, semaglutide, is most commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, but over the last few years, it has surged in popularity among people using it to lose weight.

Many celebrities, like Sharon Osbourne and Serena Williams, have publicly shared that they are on some form of a GLP-1 drug, further normalizing its off-label use. But as with any drug, it doesn’t come without potential side effects. The latest gaining visibility is called “Ozempic teeth” by some medical professionals. Similar to “Ozempic face” and “Ozempic butt,” Ozempic teeth refers to the negative impact taking the drug can have on your teeth.

Ahead, two dental experts break down what Ozempic teeth is, what causes it, signs you can look out for, and whether or not it can be reversed. Keep scrolling to read more.

Experts Featured in This Article

Ben Winters is an orthodontist, dentist, and founder of Something Nice.

Inna Chern, DDS, is a general dentist and spokesperson for Pronamel.

What Is the Ozempic Teeth Phenomena?

Ozempic teeth refers to the potentially negative dental effects of taking GLP-1 drugs. “GLP-1 medications can cause xerostomia, i.e. dry mouth, as well as an increased incidence of clenching and grinding behavior,” says Inna Chern, DDS. “The dryness subsequently creates an acidic environment in the mouth, making the likelihood of cavities and gum inflammation increase.” Additionally, clenching and grinding can also contribute to TMJ and TMD-related issues.

“Another thing we’re seeing is that some of these GLP-1s can cause nausea in people,” says Ben Winters, DDS. Essentially, if they’re vomiting more often, it can also lead to enamel erosion.

One important thing to note: “There’s nothing directly on the drug label that states that this can be caused, as these drugs are new, but there are tons of people online talking about it and dentists are seeing it,” says Dr. Winters.

What Causes Ozempic Teeth?

“GLP-1 medications can reduce saliva production and suppress thirst, resulting in dry mouth,” says Dr. Chern. “They can also trigger acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting— all of which expose teeth to stomach acid.”

Saliva naturally bathes the teeth and removes the excess biofilm that comes from dry mouth and increased acidity, so when you don’t have saliva, harmful bacteria can increase the likelihood of cavities and more.

Dr. Chern says there are quite a few warning signs you can be on the lookout for if you are taking a GLP-1 medication, like needing to get up at night to drink water, a film on the teeth throughout the day, a bitter taste in the mouth upon waking, and thinning enamel. Additionally, she says to watch out for new chips on the teeth, as well as a grey or transparent appearance on the edges or front of the teeth.

Can You Reverse Ozempic Teeth?

The short answer? No. If the issues you’re having with your teeth are directly related to taking the medication, those issues will subside once you stop taking it. However, that doesn’t fix any previous issues that occurred. “Enamel can’t be repaired once it’s destroyed, which is why it’s essential to be aware of early warning signs,” says Dr. Chern.

While you can’t reverse the effects of Ozempic teeth, you can take steps to ensure you maintain proper oral hygiene. “I recommend brushing twice daily using a soft-bristled brush with an enamel-strengthening toothpaste,” says Dr. Chern. “In addition, it’s important to hydrate regularly, take steps to increase saliva production such as chewing sugar-free gum, and limit acidic or sugary food and beverages like coffee or candy, as these can further weaken enamel.”

Dr. Winters adds that you should also make sure you’re using a fluoride toothpaste. And, of course, make sure you are visiting the dentist regularly.

Renee Rodriguez (she/her) is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.