How ginger supplements can affect dental care

May 8, 2024

Ginger may not have major drug interactions, but it does have antiplatelet and hypoglycemic effects—both of which can affect dental treatment. Here’s what you need to know.

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

Ginger. Some like it in water, some like it in tea, some like it on sushi, and some use it for aromatherapy.

Some claim ginger can be effective against motion sickness and nausea. Others say it can enhance endurance and stamina. But dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, and many claims lack scientific evidence.

Why should dental professionals be knowledgeable about ginger?

Ginger may not have major drug interactions, but it does have antiplatelet and hypoglycemic effects—both of which can affect dental treatment.

Join us in this episode of Medical History Mysteries as we take a closer look at ginger and why it’s important to know exactly what supplements your patients are taking.

Thumbnail background image credit: Helen Slyvinska / iStock / Getty Images Plus

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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Clinical Insights newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe.

About the Author

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, is the chief editor of DentistryIQ and editorial co-director of Through the Loupes. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano-Muniz began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano-Muniz owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].

About the Author

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

With more than 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author, Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, has earned the reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for dental teams. He is the founder of Pharmacology Declassified and is a member of the faculty of more than 10 dental professional degree programs. Viola has contributed to several professional journals and pharmacology textbooks, and currently serves as a consultant to the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs.