Gateway Family Dental Blog
Seasonal Allergies + Oral Health: What Do You Need to Know?
It’s that time of year again–the time when sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses reign supreme.
If you experience seasonal allergies, you’re probably dreading the rising pollen levels that springtime brings. While you’re fighting itchy eyes, irritated sinuses and constant sneezing, however, your teeth are fighting another set of battles.
So how allergies affect your teeth? Let’s find out.
Seasonal Allergies Can Cause Toothaches
In the same way that allergies can cause sinus irritation, they can also cause sinus congestion and sinus pain. When your sinuses are congested, it’s difficult to breathe through your nostrils. This forces you to constantly breathe through your mouth. This causes more than just facial and sinus pain. It can also cause issues with the teeth.
Mouth breathing causes saliva production to decrease, leading to dry mouth. Mouth breathing also makes it nearly impossible for your mouth to regulate its pH. Unregulated acids and pH in the mouth are bad news; corrosive effects like tooth decay are not far behind.
Mouth breathing also allows a constant flow of bacteria into your mouth, which can also contribute to tooth decay and even cause bad breath.
Seasonal Allergies Can Cause Gum and Tonsil Swelling
Allergies are notorious for causing post-nasal drip. For many people, post-nasal drip can cause a sore throat and swollen tonsils, which–when combined with dry mouth and bacterial build-up–can also lead to swollen, sore gums.
Swollen gums can make it difficult to brush efficiently. Over time, this can lead to irritated gums, gingivitis and even gum disease. You may also find that you get canker sores on the inside of your mouth from the mouth dryness and soreness that allergies can cause.
The best tip for fighting tooth issues caused by seasonal allergies? Make sure you’re treating your allergies efficiently and smartly. An allergist can help you formulate a game plan for getting ahead of your symptoms.
If you suffer from seasonal allergies that are causing issues with your teeth, it might be time to visit your dentist.
Gateway Family Dentistry is one of the best-rated dental practices in Murfreesboro. We offer a range of dental care services, including exams, x-rays, cleanings and more.
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