We are getting closer to spring which means it’s time for colorful flowers, warm weather, and dreadful allergies. If you or a loved one suffer from allergies, you know all about the runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. But did you know allergies can have a serious effect on your oral health as well?
Allergies Can Cause Tooth Pain
With sinus allergies, a common symptom is that hollow spaces in your head fill with mucus and that pressure can cause pain. If the maxillary sinuses, which are located above your mouth, are involved, it can cause pressure on your upper molars. You may experience pain, and tooth sensitivity to hot and cold.
Dry Mouth Is a Common Symptom
Dry mouth is a recipe for cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Allergies cause dry mouth because a normal reaction to stuffy noses is to breathe through your mouth, which dries saliva. A second cause comes from the medicines commonly used to treat allergies. The side effect of many antihistamines is dry mouth.
What Can You Do?
• Gargle with salt water. Besides cutting down on bacteria in the mouth, the gargling can reduce mucus buildup.
• Keep up your regular dental routine. You may not feel like it, but it is important to continue the daily brushing and flossing to keep bacteria and plaque at bay, as well as help reduce dry mouth.
• Keep hydrated. Drink lots of fluids. It helps fight dry mouth, and is good for your overall health, not just your oral health.
• Consider sugar-free gum. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva.
If symptoms persist, consult us to be sure your conditions are allergy related, and not from an underlying dental problem.