Did You Realise Allergies Can Affect Your Dental Health?

Spring heralds the start of the allergy season and can bring sniffles, sneezing and itchy, watery eyes. However, did you realise that allergies can affect your dental health?

Dry Mouth

A stuffy nose can force you to breathe through your mouth, causing your mouth to become drier. Antihistamines to control symptoms can cause dry mouth as a side-effect. The problem with dry mouth is that it can increase your risk of gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. You need plenty of saliva to keep your teeth and gums clean. Make sure you drink plenty of water to help combat the effects of dry mouth.

Toothache

Allergies can affect your sinuses, placing unwanted pressure on your upper back teeth. Consequently, you may notice these teeth feel more sensitive to hot and cold foods or even feel painful. One solution is to try gargling with salt water to help remove mucus buildup and bacteria in your mouth and throat or to use antihistamines. If the symptoms are relieved by antihistamines, it’s most likely your tooth pain isn’t caused by dental problems. However, if antihistamines relieve your allergies but not your tooth pain, make an appointment to come and see us here at Coastal Smiles.