Dental decay and salivary flow in patients taking systemic isotretinoin: A prospective study

Background: Isotretinoin causes dryness of the mucous membranes. Medications altering the salivary flow are a risk factor for dental caries. Purpose: To prospectively assess caries and salivary flow in patients taking systemic isotretinoin. Methods: Twenty-four patients treated with 0.5 mg/kg of isotretinoin every day for 8 months were studied. The control group was the same patients before start taking oral Isotretinoin. Salivary flow, buffer capacity, bacterial tests, and caries status based on the decay, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index were assessed. Results: At baseline, there was slight to moderate calculus on the teeth. DMFT index, stimulated saliva flow, and bacterial tests for Streptococcus mutans increased during isotretinoin treatment (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in buffering capacity or Lactobacillus. Conclusion: Systemic isotretinoin increased the DMFT index and bacteria rate and decreased salivary flow that might lead to dental caries.