From the Blog

Got Allergies? Tell Your Dentist

Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? If so, don't forget to let your dentist know – there's a strong connection between allergy season and our oral health! While not everyone experiences the same symptoms, allergies can have an impact on your teeth, gums, and mouth. From dryness to changes in taste to increased sensitivity and more, it's important for dental patients with allergies to be aware of their unique needs during this time of year. In this blog post we'll explore the link between seasonal allergies and oral health. We'll also look at how actively caring for your well-being throughout the pollen season could help keep some potentially uncomfortable problems at bay—so let’s dive in!
woman sneezing and sitting in a field of weeds

Do you suffer from seasonal allergies? If so, don’t forget to let your dentist know – there’s a strong connection between allergy season and our oral health! While not everyone experiences the same symptoms, allergies can have an impact on your teeth, gums, and mouth. From dryness to changes in taste to increased sensitivity and more, it’s important for dental patients with allergies to be aware of their unique needs during this time of year. In this blog post we’ll explore the link between seasonal allergies and oral health. We’ll also look at how actively caring for your well-being throughout the pollen season could help keep some potentially uncomfortable problems at bay—so let’s dive in!

What are seasonal allergies?

When the spring and summer months arrive, we often experience bright days and pleasant weather. Unfortunately, with warmer temperatures can come a few downsides, like seasonal allergies! But what are seasonal allergies? To put it simply, seasonal allergies occur when your immune system has an adverse reaction to certain substances found in the environment during certain seasons – hence why it’s called a “seasonal” allergy. The most common culprit of seasonal allergies is pollen from plants, however mold spores, dust mites, and animal dander can also trigger seasonal allergies.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that as many as 50 million Americans are affected by seasonal allergies every year. Common signs of allergies from pollen or other allergens include:

computerized image of woman's side profile inhaling different allergens: pet dander, dust mites, pollen
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy eyes
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
  • Watery eyes
  • Nasal congestion
  • Fatigue

Aside from these symptoms, oral health can also be affected by allergies since inflammation of the nose and throat can lead to overly dry mouth which can cause cavities or gum disease if saliva flow is disrupted for too long. If you think you have severe seasonal allergies that are affecting your oral health habits or if you find yourself experiencing a lot of common signs – don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional for expert advice!

How Allergies Affect Oral Health

Seasonal allergies can have a major impact on your oral health, causing common issues such as bad breath, dry mouth and even tooth pain! Let’s take a closer look at these oral health issues:

Dry Mouth

Saliva is important because it helps to keep our mouths clean and healthy by washing away food particles, neutralizing acids produced by bacteria, and regulating bacterial levels. Unfortunately, dry mouth is another common symptom of seasonal allergies. Dry mouth can occur as a result of breathing through the mouth due to nasal congestion, as well as from taking antihistamine medications that decrease saliva production. In any case, dry mouth increases the risk of both tooth decay and gum disease.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by a buildup of bacteria in your mouth. Not having enough saliva in the mouth can lead to bad breath, since this allows bacteria to accumulate. Allergies can also cause postnasal drip, which then leads to bad breath by irritating the throat and trapping bacteria.

Tooth Pain

Seasonal allergies also cause tooth pain and sensitivity. This is because the maxillary sinuses fill with mucus and become inflamed during allergy season. This inflammation causes pain and pressure in the sinus cavity that pushes down on the tooth roots, especially those in the upper jaw. As a result, you may experience toothaches and/or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. However, it is important to see your dentist to determine the exact cause of your tooth pain.

Advice on how to best manage seasonal allergies and maintain good oral health

Allergies are a common health concern experienced by many people. It is important to practice good oral hygiene during allergy season in order to keep your mouth healthy. Here are some tips on how to manage seasonal allergies and maintain good oral health:

side profile of a young girl drinking a glass of water

1. Drink plenty of fluids – This will help to keep your mouth clean and prevent dry mouth. Drinking water is especially important if you are taking antihistamine medications that are known to cause dry mouth.

2. Use a humidifier – A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air and reduce nasal congestion. Reducing nasal congestion prevents mouth breathing, which reduces the likelihood of dry mouth. Just be sure to clean it regularly to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.

3. Brush and floss regularly – Brushing and flossing help to remove food particles which can cause bad breath, as well as plaque that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

4. Stimulate saliva production –  Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on a hard candy can help to stimulate saliva production and reduce dry mouth. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or using mouthwashes that contain alcohol, since they can impair saliva production.

5. Visit your dentist for regular checkups – Regular checkups with your dentist can help to detect any dental issues caused by seasonal allergies and prevent them from becoming more serious.

By following these tips, you can manage your seasonal allergies and maintain good oral health during allergy season!

In Conclusion

Seasonal allergies are a common issue that can cause nasal congestion, headaches, and fatigue. If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies, you might not realize that your oral health can be affected, too. Allergies can cause bad breath, dry mouth, and tooth pain. That’s why it’s important to let your dentist know if you suffer from allergies. They can help you to manage your allergies and maintain good oral health.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Print

More From Our Blog

A Comprehensive Guide to Root Canal Treatment: Understanding the Steps

When it comes to dental procedures, root canal treatment often carries an air of mystery and fear. However, understanding the step-by-step process of this treatment can demystify it and help alleviate any apprehensions. Root canal treatment is a crucial procedure for saving natural teeth and relieving pain caused by infected or damaged dental pulp. In this blog, we will take you through the various steps involved in root canal treatment, shedding light on each stage to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the process. By the end, you’ll realize that root canal treatment is a valuable and effective solution for maintaining your oral health.

Read More »

The Impact of Bruxism on Your Teeth and Oral Health

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, affects a significant portion of the population. While it may seem harmless, bruxism can have a profound impact on your teeth and overall oral health. In this blog, we will delve into the consequences of bruxism, explore its effects on teeth and oral health, and discuss preventive measures and treatment options to safeguard your smile.

Read More »

The Connection Between Oral Health and Diet

The old saying “you are what you eat” not only applies to your overall health but also your oral health. What you consume has a direct impact on the health of your teeth and gums. Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help promote good oral health by providing the necessary nutrients and vitamins to keep your teeth and gums strong. On the other hand, consuming too much sugar and acidic foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. In this day and age, it’s important to understand the connection between diet and oral health to make informed decisions about what we eat and drink, and to maintain good oral hygiene habits for optimal oral health.

Read More »