Seasonal allergies cause cold-like symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing and a persistent cough. For some, they can also lead to itchy, inflamed gums and general discomfort inside your mouth. Understanding the connection between seasonal allergies and oral health is one of the best ways to protect your teeth and gums during allergy season.

How Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Gums

Gum Pain

During an allergy attack, the membranes that line your nasal passages become inflamed and irritated. Because your sinuses are located along the upper jaw just above your teeth, inflammation can lead to gum discomfort.

Increase in Bacteria

A runny nose is one of the most common symptoms of allergies. Excess mucus from your sinuses can slide down your throat and into your mouth. You may experience bad breath and gum irritation due to increased bacteria inside the mouth.

Swollen and Itchy Gums

When you have an allergic reaction, your body releases histamines. These histamines cause inflammation throughout the body. Your gums may feel red, swollen and itchy. Ignoring these symptoms can eventually lead to periodontal disease.

Dry Mouth

A stuffy nose can make it difficult to breathe. You may find yourself breathing with your mouth open which can lead to dry mouth. Saliva helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and can even help prevent cavities. Without saliva, bacteria will increase inside the mouth causing gum inflammation and even infection.

Keeping Your Mouth Healthy During Allergy Season

By following a consistent oral hygiene routine, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout allergy season. The following are a few tips to help you stay on track.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated. Drinking water encourages saliva production, which also cuts down on bacteria. If you have chronic dry mouth even after drinking water, try chewing sugar-free gum or lozenges to keep saliva flowing.

Use a Saline Rinse

Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in approximately 8 ounces of warm water and swish it around in your mouth every two to three hours. A saline rinse helps prevent dental bacteria, can ease the pain of swollen and itchy gums and can clear your mouth of any other allergens and mucus.

Brush and Floss

Practice healthy oral habits. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time and floss at least once a day. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities.

Seek Allergy Relief

Schedule an appointment with your general practitioner for allergy relief. He may recommend prescription or over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays to help control your allergy symptoms.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Don’t let seasonal allergies have a major effect on your teeth and gums. By staying hydrated and practicing good oral hygiene, you can help manage your symptoms and keep your mouth healthy.

Schedule an appointment with Barry P. Levin, DMD, PC at least once every 6 months for a cleaning and check-up – contact us today!