How Can Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Teeth?
The Effects of Seasonal Allergies on Your Oral Health
For many of us, the arrival of spring is a welcome change after a long, cold winter. Unfortunately, this change of season can also bring some seriously uncomfortable side effects for those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Sneezing, itchy eyes, and a scratchy throat are all common symptoms of allergies, but did you know that seasonal allergies could also affect your teeth?
From the team at Fairfield Dental Arts, here are a few ways that allergies can impact your oral health and what you can do to protect your pearly whites:
Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain
If you’ve ever experienced a sinus infection, you know just how bad the pressure can be. During allergy season, your sinuses can also become inflamed and blocked, leading to pressure and pain in your teeth. This is because the roots of your upper teeth are close to your sinuses. When your sinuses are congested, inflammation and pressure can impact the nerves in your teeth, causing them to ache. If you’re experiencing tooth pain along with your allergies, it’s important to see your dental healthcare provider to ensure that the problem isn’t something more serious.
Dry Mouth
Allergies can also lead to a dry mouth. When your sinuses are congested, you may breathe through your mouth more frequently, which can cause your mouth to dry out. Unfortunately, a dry mouth can impact your dental health in a number of ways. Saliva plays an important role in neutralizing decay-causing acids in your mouth. It also helps to flush away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and tooth decay. If you’re experiencing a dry mouth, it’s important to stay hydrated and talk to your dental healthcare provider about products that can help increase your saliva flow.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Research has shown that people who suffer from seasonal allergies are more likely to develop gum disease than those who don’t. The reason for this is unclear, but experts believe that inflammation caused by allergies may weaken the immune system and make it more difficult for the body to fight off oral bacteria. Additionally, people with allergies are more likely to breathe through their mouth, leading to a dry mouth and an increased risk of gum disease. If you have allergies, brushing and flossing regularly and attending regular dental check-ups to monitor your gum health are important.
Mouth Breathing and Tooth Decay
Allergies can also cause prolonged mouth breathing. When you breathe through your mouth, your saliva flow is reduced, creating a dry environment in your mouth. This can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can cause bad breath and tooth decay. Additionally, mouth breathing can cause your mouth to become acidic, which can erode your tooth enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity. If you’re struggling with mouth breathing due to allergies, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to reduce your symptoms and keep your mouth healthy.
Contact Fairfield Dental Arts to schedule your dental cleaning and check-up appointment!
Don’t ignore the signs of dental pain and discomfort during allergy season. If you are worried about your teeth, need a cleaning, or are experiencing any dental problems, give Fairfield Dental Arts a call at (203) 254-3780. We are your family’s dentist and proudly provide expert oral care for people of all ages!