How Do Seasonal Allergies Impact Oral Health?

April is the spring season, and while it’s mostly a time of renewal, there’s also the terrible allergies! Most people are familiar with the occasional sneezing, itchy nose, and watery eyes throughout the month. But were you aware that your teeth and mouth can be negatively impacted by the pollen and dust? Read on to learn how allergies affect your oral health and the importance of practicing preventive dental care!

Toothaches from Sinus Pressure

While toothaches typically happen due to issues like gum disease and decay, you can also experience discomfort because of sinusitis. This is when the nasal sinuses are inflamed, and it’s usually caused by bacteria related to flu and cold. Since the sinuses in the cheekbone become swollen and congested, this results in pressure and toothaches.

Tooth Decay & Discomfort from Dry Mouth

Those who struggle with allergy problems—like hay fever or pollen allergy—can also suffer from dry mouth. With this condition, you have a reduced saliva flow which makes your mouth more vulnerable to bacteria growth. Without saliva to wash away any buildup, it could trigger tooth decay and discomfort. If these situations worsen, it could require a change in drinking habits, medications, or even a root canal for a decayed tooth.

Sore Throat Induced by Pollen

Sometimes people accidentally swallow pollen that was picked up by the wind. This could cause an allergic reaction of excessive mucus. Should it run down the throat, it can result in a runny nose, coughing, and a sore throat. If the lymph nodes are swollen because of a sore throat, then it can lead to dental pain.

Practicing Preventive Care

Since spring allergies can potentially cause harm to your oral health, it’s important to practice a good dental hygiene routine. To protect your teeth from the negative impacts this season, you can try:

• Drinking lots of water
• Brushing and flossing your teeth every day
• Using mouthwash frequently
• Visiting your dentist regularly (every six months or sooner) for dental checkups and cleaning

While pollen and dust can run rampant throughout the month, practicing preventive dental care can save you from the annoying allergies and protect your smile. And if you want more advice on how to handle the springtime troubles, your dentist is always happy to help!

About the Practice

At Scotch Plains Fanwood Dental Care, we are dedicated to delivering top-quality and passionate dental care. We focus on providing the utmost comfort while performing advanced treatments to maintain a healthy smile. We also offer dental checkups and cleanings to help fight spring allergies. If you want to know more on how allergies affect your dental health, visit our website or call us at 908-322-3222.