Sniffling, Sneezing, and Dental Disease: How Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Oral Health
Spring is in the air – both figuratively and literally. The air is warmer, but those lovely spring breezes also carry lots of pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. Allergies can be miserable in their own right, but did you know they also contribute to oral health problems?
Seasonal Allergies and Tooth Decay
Breathing through your nose is difficult when you’re stuffed up from seasonal allergies. Sinus inflammation and congestion often lead to mouth breathing, contributing to a dry mouth. With less saliva production, acids can flourish, attacking your tooth enamel. Tooth decay is more likely to cause damage and tooth pain during allergy season.
Mouth breathing also contributes to bad breath and increases the number of bacteria flowing into your mouth. Your nose naturally filters air when you breathe in, but your teeth and gums don’t.
Seasonal Allergies and Inflammation
Post-nasal drip is one of the more unpleasant aspects of coping with allergies. Did you know it can also cause a sore throat and inflamed tonsils? This is particularly true in the morning when many allergy sufferers wake up to a scratchy throat and swollen tonsils. This swelling and irritation can contribute to painful, swollen gums due to dryness and bacterial build-up.
Unfortunately, there can be long-lasting consequences to poor oral hygiene, including gingivitis and gum disease. Throat irritation and swollen gums make many people less diligent about brushing and flossing. After all, who wants to brush and floss when their mouth already hurts? Some individuals are also more likely to develop canker sores inside their mouths during allergy season.
Can Allergy Medications Contribute to Oral Health Problems?
There is a Catch-22 associated with over-the-counter allergy treatments. Antihistamines dry up excessive congestion in the sinuses and dry out the mouth, leading to tooth enamel and gingivitis breakdown.
If you have allergies, you’ve probably treated your sore throat or cough with medicated syrups or throat lozenges high in sugar. The thick, syrupy consistency of liquid cough suppressants is ideal for soothing the throat. However, it also coats the teeth and gums, encouraging sugars and acid to attack soft tissues and tooth enamel.
How to Control Allergies Without Damaging Your Oral Health
If you suffer from allergies, the first step is to visit your physician or an allergist. They can prescribe medications that alleviate your symptoms without the dramatic side effects caused by many over-the-counter medications. Also, keep these tips in mind:
- Stay hydrated to keep your mouth moist and encourage saliva production
- Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (1 teaspoon in a glass of water) to flush out bacteria and mucous from post-nasal drip
- Use a humidifier in your home and office to reduce the drying of the sinuses and mouth
- If you use cough syrups or throat lozenges, opt for sugar-free
- Brush and floss thoroughly to remove sugars and acids that may build up on your teeth and gums
- Avoid sugary treats and focus on a balanced diet of greens, vegetables, and lean proteins
If your seasonal allergies impact your dental health, schedule an appointment with our office for a checkup and professional cleaning to minimize potential damage. Call our office at Smileboston Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry office Phone Number 617-277-4100 or request an appointment using our simple online form.