What oral health effects does congestive heart failure have?

Medical management of congestive heart failure may require taking several different prescribed medications (polypharmacy). The side effects you may experieince by taking your heart failure medications include having a dry mouth. A dry mouth may lead to a decreased ability to taste food and drink. With congestive heart failure, some organs in the body may not receive a sufficient amount of blood supply, such as the tongue. Research is ongoing regarding the relationship between a decreased blood flow to the tongue and having a lower taste sensitivity. A tip to keep in mind if you suffer from a dry mouth, is to use a soft to medium bristled tooth brush when brushing your teeth so you may avoid aggravating your tongue and gums. You may also notice an odor or bad breath from having a dry mouth. A mouthwash that contains alcohol should be used with caution, as the alcohol may contribute to the dryness of the tongue, gums, and tissue of the mouth. You may want to consider an alcohol-free mouthwash.