As the seasons change, allergies often come with warmer weather. Pollen from trees and grass can cause not only sneezing and itchy eyes but also affect your dental health.

Fall allergies, such as ragweed, mold spores, and dust mites, can possibly harm dental health in several ways:

Dry Mouth

Allergies can lead to nasal congestion, causing individuals to breathe through their mouths more frequently. Mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia), which reduces saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by helping to rinse away food particles and neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Reduced saliva can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

Toothaches

Sinus pressure and sensitivity signal seasonal allergies affecting your face. Maxillary sinuses, situated above your mouth, fill with mucus due to immune responses to irritants. This congestion creates pressure on the upper molar roots, leading to sensitivity to temperature in foods and positional pain.

Bad Breath

Seasonal allergies often lead to a runny nose due to increased mucus production. This excess mucus can flow down the throat, fostering oral bacteria growth and causing bad breath. Prolonged allergies can intensify the problem, potentially resulting in a sore throat, especially when coupled with mouth breathing, creating a challenging cycle to break.

Swollen Gums

Allergies can create swollen gums, which can be uncomfortable and damage your smile. Allergies cause this by raising postnasal drip, which, paired with a dry mouth, results in red, painful gums. This irritation can make brushing difficult, potentially leading to gingivitis, gum disease, and mouth sores.

Consider the following tips to reduce the impact of seasonal allergies on oral health:

– Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help combat dry mouth caused by mouth breathing and certain medications.

– Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and bacteria from the mouth.