Seasonal allergies are the worst. You don’t feel great for days on end, and, depending on the severity of the allergies, they may even cause you to miss out on the things you enjoy – like spending time with friends or going on that big trip. But did you know that allergies can also take a toll on your teeth and gums? Many people don’t realize the connection between seasonal allergies and dental health. Your Raleigh dentist is here with the information you need to know.
What Seasonal Allergies Are
Most people get seasonal allergies twice a year, in the spring and fall, when the air is filled with substances from pollination that cause irritation in the nasal cavity. As opposed to a cold or flu, you won’t have a fever with seasonal allergies – but many of the other symptoms are the same. They include:
- Runny nose
- Itchy throat
- Watery eyes
- Cough
- Sneezing
Seasonal Allergies and Your Oral Health
While your main focus is probably on your coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes, you should also consider the side effects that these symptoms can have on your oral cavity. Congestion leads to mouth breathing, which can cause dry mouth – especially at night while you sleep, when you go hours without eating or drinking anything. Without the proper amount of saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria, dry mouth can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and even gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.
Post-nasal drip caused by allergies can also increase the amount of bacteria in your mouth, leading to bad breath and further increasing your risk of getting cavities or gum disease.
How to Protect Your Teeth and Gums From Allergy Season
If you are constantly reaching for the tissues in the spring and fall months due to your allergies, you should also be reaching for your toothbrush and floss. Cleaning your teeth as recommended will help protect you from the increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease that allergies cause. You may also want to consider upping your water intake, which will keep you hydrated and help prevent dry mouth. Chewing sugar free gum is another great way to help your mouth wash away bacteria to reduce your risk of developing oral health issues.
Now that you know about the risk allergy season brings to your smile, consider that it’s also a great time to visit the dentist! Getting a professional checkup and cleaning will help you head into the fall with a clean and healthy smile – so you’re extra protected from any problems brought on by pollen.
Meet the Dentist
Christine D. Laster, DDS offers exceptional dental care for patients of Rensch and Laster Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. From routine preventive services to transformational treatments like teeth whitening and porcelain veneers, they really do it all. To learn more about how to avoid dental problems during allergy season, don’t hesitate to contact their office by phone at (919) 787-0355.