Allergy season can be incredibly hard on your body, especially if you tend to have bad reactions to airborne pollen. Unfortunately, dentists know that patients should also worry about how allergies can impact their oral health, as the teeth and gums are sensitive to change. Here are three ways allergy season can affect your oral health and what you can do to ward off dental problems. 

3 Ways Allergies Can Impact Your Teeth

1. Medications Can Dry Out Your Mouth

If you have seasonal allergies, you might find yourself with more mucous than normal, which is why you might be tempted to take antihistamines. However, dentists warn that medications that block watery secretions, such as antihistamines, can contribute to dry mouth. When the oral cavity is dry, it can cause bad breath and tooth decay, as saliva helps to neutralize bacterial acids and rinse away food particles. 

2. Allergies Can Cause Toothaches 

Allergic responses can also cause the sinuses to fill up with mucus, which can put pressure on the teeth. Sinus infections can lead to lots of pain, making it hard to talk and chew. Fortunately, by keeping your allergies in check, you can avoid tooth pain. Talk with your doctor if you have allergy problems, and ask about medications that won’t cause dry mouth. 

3. Allergy Season Can Distract You From Dental Problems 

When you are struggling to breathe, your teeth and gums might be the last thing on your mind. However, keep in mind that your oral health directly impacts the health of the rest of your body. Pay attention to the way your teeth look and feel, and always report new problems to your dentist as soon as possible. 

If you tend to suffer from seasonal allergies, make regular dental care a priority this spring. The team at Gleason Dental Clinic understands how complex oral health care can be, which is why they are dedicated to creating treatment plans that work well for your lifestyle and dental health concerns. To book an appointment with their Beatrice, NE, dentist, send them a quick message online or give them a call at (402) 228-3119.