It’s autumn again – and as the leaves turn beautiful, brilliant shades of red and yellow, it is also the time of the year when itchy eyes, runny noses, and sneezing, reign supreme.
Did you know that all that congestion and sneezing can spell trouble for your teeth? Know what fall allergies mean for your oral health and how you can keep your teeth happy despite the itchiness and sniffles.
Watch out for fall allergies
Allergy triggers start to flourish around the month of September. The lovely fall breeze carries with it pollen, causing allergies to flare up. This season also stirs up dust mites and mold spores, which can trigger watery eyes and runny noses.
Knowing the dental side effects
Allergy problems, including hay fever, can directly impact your oral health, so watch out for these signs and symptoms:
- Tooth pain – if you are experiencing pain in your upper teeth, and you don’t have tooth decay or cavities, allergies may be to blame. Your sinuses occupy a substantial amount in your head, and sinus congestion can put pressure on your teeth, causing headaches.
- Sore throat – sore throat is usually caused by post-nasal drip. A sore throat may have oral health consequences like halitosis – a minor but socially inconvenient problem that your toothbrush can’t fix.
- Dry mouth – when your nose is congested, you are more likely to breathe through your mouth. This can dry up saliva, your teeth’s primary protector. Without saliva, your teeth are at risk for a host of oral health issues. Antihistamines can also cause dry mouth.
Preventive options
Thankfully, you can find allergy relief and protect your teeth at the same time.
- Hydration – good hydration can help reduce dry mouth symptoms and flush out mucus. It can also help combat congestion. If dry mouth continues to be a problem, talk to your Dallas dentist.
- Gargle with salt water – this traditional remedy can help ease sore throat symptoms and promote mucus clearout. A saltwater rinse also discourages the growth of oral bacteria.
- Use a humidifier – run a humidifier in your room especially at bedtime to help alleviate allergy symptoms. The vapor will help reduce inflammation and soothe your throat.
If you have concerns about your fall allergies or overall dental health, do not hesitate to talk to your physician or Dallas dentist. At Dallas Dental Wellness, your oral health and overall health are our top priorities, and together we can keep your mouth healthy this season and beyond!
Sources:
“Poor oral health is associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis in Korean adolescents, A cross-sectional study, Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc., https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/Fulltext/2020/07310/Poor_oral_health_is_associated_with_asthma,.133.aspx
“How Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Oral Health,” UK Dentistry, https://dentistry.uky.edu/patient-care/how-seasonal-allergies-affect-your-oral-health
“Don’t Let Seasonal Allergies Harm Your Smile, Nelson Dental Care, https://www.nelsondentalcarela.com/blog/2021/03/01/seasonal-allergies-and-dental-health/
