You may be excited for springtime for the warmer weather and plant life coming back. However, as pretty as blossoms might be, allergy season also comes into full swing for many people. While the watery eyes and scratchy throat might be annoying to deal with, your smile can also be affected this time of year. Here’s what you need to know and how you can protect your oral health.
How Can My Allergies Affect My Oral Health?
Your allergies can impact your grin because of how you manage them. For instance, you might start to breathe through your mouth if your nose is congested. While this may be more comfortable, it can impact your saliva production. You may not be able to effectively wash away harmful bacteria, meaning you may be at a greater risk of dental problems like cavities and bad breath.
As a response to allergies, your immune system releases histamines. These increase blood flow, but they can also make your gums inflamed. They might be more swollen or irritated, leading to discomfort.
If your sinuses get filled with fluid, then it can put pressure on your face. You can feel it on your upper molars, which can be confused for a toothache. If you notice it gets worse when you bend over or lie down, then it’s likely not a dental issue.
What Can I Do to Protect My Smile During Allergy Season?
Since your allergies can have a real impact on your smile, you might wonder what you can do to keep your smile in great shape. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Brush twice and floss once every dayto remove plaque that causes oral health problems in the first place.
- Drink plenty of water to protect your enamel from sugary allergy medications and to hydrate your mouth.
- Have your first yearly visit with your dentist. They will be able to watch for red flags in your smile and give you the treatment you need to fix them.
In the end, you shouldn’t let allergy season stop you from showing off a healthy grin! Follow the simple tips above, and you can make sure your teeth and gums stay in great shape this time of year and beyond.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Fromuth earned his dental degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has over a decade of experience, which he uses to give the Manchester community the high-quality care they deserve. By coming to Dr. Fromuth for your routine checkups and cleanings, he can make sure your smile is strong and problem-free. If you are due for your next visit, schedule an appointment or call his office at (603) 644-3368.