Many medications can harm dental health. For example, some medicines can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and other infections. Other medicines can cause gum disease by interfering with the body's ability to fight off bacteria. Some medications can make it difficult for the body to absorb calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth. To avoid these problems, talk to a dentist about any medications being taken. The dentist can then determine whether the medication will cause dental problems and make recommendations accordingly.