| Allergy season is uncomfortable for many people, bringing about watery eyes, sneezing, and sinus problems. On their own, these symptoms can make you feel miserable, but they might also lead to some oral health troubles. By understanding some of the most common ways your oral health could suffer with allergies, you can take steps to keep your mouth healthy. Dry Mouth Allergies may also be responsible for dry mouth, which can lead to a host of oral health issues. When your nose is stuffy, you may breathe through your mouth to compensate. Once your mouth dries out, you won’t have enough saliva to properly rinse off bacteria. Even antihistamines that you might use to combat allergy symptoms can dry out the mouth, increasing your chances of bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. Toothaches Some people experience tooth pain when dealing with seasonal allergies. For example, people who suffer from allergic rhinitis are prone to sinus infections, and a common symptom of the condition is tooth pain. When the hollow spaces within the head fill with mucous, pain may result, and since the maxillary sinuses are located just above the mouth, this pressure may be felt in the teeth. Malocclusion Another potential issue connected to allergies and oral health is malocclusion, especially among young children. If your child has chronic nasal congestion as a result of allergies, he may have crooked or misaligned teeth. Since he’s forced to breathe in and out through the mouth, he may develop an abnormally-shaped palate. Eventually, this may require you to invest in braces to correct the problem. If you suffer from seasonal allergies and sinus issues, it is even more important that you keep up with your dental appointments. Give us a call today to set up your next cleaning and dental visit. |
Does Your Oral Health Suffer if You Have Allergies?
