Many allergy sufferers may believe that the worst is over since the spring and summer and fall months are gone. Unfortunately, it’s the beginning of another round for many who suffer from allergies leading into winter.
During winter, you enclose yourself snuggly in your home, everyday household items may trigger your allergies, such as pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites.
If you have dental issues, your allergies may take a toll on your oral health.
Here’s how seasonal allergies may trigger or worsen dental problems.
Dry Mouth
One issue you’ll probably experience with allergies is dry mouth. When you’re suffering from allergies, you may experience nasal congestion from sinus pressure. As a result, you’ll have to breathe through your mouth, which interferes with saliva production in the mouth. Without enough saliva, you may be at a high risk for tooth decay, bad breath, or gum disease. You may also have trouble speaking, chewing, and swallowing.
Tooth Pain
Besides dry mouth, another problem you may face with seasonal allergies is tooth pain. As sinus pressure builds in various parts of your face, pain may develop in your teeth, particularly near the roots of your upper teeth. You may experience pain in the form of tooth sensitivity, which can worsen as you adjust your body, whether sitting, standing, or lying down.
Sore Throat
Another issue you may have to deal with when suffering from seasonal allergies is a sore throat. Post-nasal drip is a common occurrence with allergies, and this, along with dry mouth, can exacerbate bad breath and increase the formation of cavities.
Gum Inflammation
Allergy sufferers may also experience gum inflammation. As dry mouth occurs, the lack of saliva may increase harmful bacteria buildup in your mouth. When having an allergic reaction, the body releases histamines, which may also increase the harmful bacteria in your mouth. As a result, your gums may swell and turn red. In some cases, this inflammation can lead to severe pain and bleeding of the gums.
What Can You Do to Minimize Pain Associated with Allergies
If you suffer from chronic allergies, especially in winter, you’ll need to do what you can to avoid the double whammy of pain from sinuses and dental issues. Here are some ways to ease the pain.
Take Your Allergy Medicine
One of the best ways to control oral pain is to take allergy medicine. Doing this is especially important if your allergic reactions produce plenty of histamines. Taking allergy medicine with antihistamines can help relieve sinus pressure and tooth pain.
Drink Water and Other Liquids
Since dry mouth is a common problem with allergy sufferers, you’ll need to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other liquids. This will help keep your mouth lubricated since it won’t be able to produce as much saliva as when you don’t have allergies.
Gargle
If your allergies cause a sore throat, one way you can find instant relief is by gargling with warm salt water. This will help alleviate sinus problems and reduce the pain associated with a sore throat. It will also reduce the harmful bacteria that may be present in your mouth.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
If the pain is unbearable, even after taking medication, staying hydrated, and gargling, you may need to book a dental appointment. A dentist will recommend the best option for relieving pain caused by allergies. This may include a routine cleaning and prescribing pain medication.
Allergies Causing Oral Discomfort? See Your Dentist for Relief
When seasonal allergies hit, it can feel like more than a sinus issue—facial pressure and soreness can make everyday life uncomfortable. If you’re dealing with pain or sensitivity, our dental team can help you get to the root of what’s going on and recommend the right next step.
Sedki Dentistry proudly serves Commerce Township families with dental care for every age.Call today to book an appointment.