Effect of inhalation therapy on oral health in patients with chronic airway disease

The primary treatment for both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma is inhalation therapy. When utilized over an extended period of time, inhalation treatment serves as both a controller and a relief therapy. Oral adverse effects can result from inhaled medications, particularly bronchodilators and corticosteroids that are deposited in the oropharyngeal region. Reduced saliva flow rate, periodontal disease, oral thrush, dental caries, and dental erosion are just a few of the side effects and difficulties associated with using inhaler therapy that are frequently discovered in the oral region. This problem may arise from improper inhaler use, concomitant diseases and conditions of the patient, inadequate education, and inadequate assessment of oral health during inhalation medication. In order to prevent side effects and complications from inhaler therapy, it is essential to comprehend the different types of inhaler drugs and the pathophysiology associated with oral health complications. This will enable clinicians to modify the components of the drug type, the type of inhaler therapy device, and the appropriate method of use based on the unique characteristics of each patient.