If you are like most people, you probably love the bright sunshine and colorful flowers that are characteristic of springtime. Unfortunately, though, this season has at least one major downside: high pollen counts. During this time of year, many people find themselves suffering from nasal congestion and other symptoms of seasonal allergies. If you are among them, you should be aware of how your allergies might be affecting your oral health. This blog post provides some important information and gives tips on how you can protect your smile.
Seasonal Allergies and Dry Mouth
Seasonal allergies are often a major contributor to dry mouth. This can happen in a couple of different ways:
- Nasal congestion causes mouth breathing. If it is difficult for you to breathe through your nose, you will breathe through your mouth. This can cause your saliva to dry up.
- Allergy medications can cause dry mouth. Many people who use antihistamines to control their allergy symptoms experience dry mouth as a side effect.
At first, a dry mouth might seem like nothing more than an annoyance. In reality, though, it can lead to significant oral health problems. Saliva is important for keeping your teeth strong and rinsing away harmful food particles and bacteria. Without enough of it to keep your mouth moist, you are at an increased risk of cavities, bad breath and gum disease.
Protecting Your Smile
What can you do to protect your smile during allergy season? Here are some practical tips:
- Drink enough water. Staying hydrated helps to keep your mouth clean and encourages saliva production.
- Suck on sugar-free candy. Sugar-free candies and gum can stimulate the production of saliva. If they are sweetened with xylitol, they have the added advantage of helping to prevent cavities!
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Regular, thorough brushing and flossing can do much to fight oral bacteria and prevent problems like cavities and gum disease. You could also use a mouth rinse that is specifically designed for people with dry mouth.
- Try to avoid allergy triggers. If your schedule allows it, try to stay indoors when pollen counts are at their peak. A good air filtration system in your home can also be helpful.
- Talk to your primary care practitioner. You could be a candidate for allergy shots or prescription allergy medications.
- Visit your dentist for a checkup. Your dentist can help you to prevent and/or manage the oral health problems that can result from a dry mouth.
Springtime allergies can put your smile at risk! Take steps to protect your teeth and gums so you can fully enjoy this beautiful time of year.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Evan Yu is the trusted general dentist at Winthrop Street Dentistry. He provides a range of services, including preventive and restorative care. He is a friendly man and enjoys sharing his knowledge with patients, so if you have questions about how to care for your smile, you are always welcome to ask! To learn more about Dr. Yu and our team, contact our Worcester dental office at 508-756-0990.
