Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 25.7% of American adults suffer from seasonal allergies. That is one out of every four adults in the United States. If you are one of them, you know what to expect by this point: sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes … and dental issues? How can spring allergies lead to problems with your oral health? Find out today on the blog.
Here is what happens in your body when you have seasonal allergies
If you have an allergy to pollen, for example, exposure triggers the release of histamines by your body’s immune system. Histamines are part of the natural defense system of your body; they increase blood supply to the affected areas – in this case the nose and sinuses, which become inflamed, swollen and increase their production of mucus. These histamines also cause some of the symptoms you experience when your allergies are flaring.
The consequences of seasonal allergies
Mucous membranes line both your nasal and sinus cavities. As mentioned, the release of histamines increases mucus production, which also increases the pressure in the sinus cavities. This pressure is the culprit behind the headaches you experience from allergies and also may cause tenderness in the face – especially the cheekbones.
There is no pleasant way to discuss the symptoms of seasonal allergies. That increased mucus production means you probably have some tissues close at hand at all times. Postnasal drip also can make it difficult to sleep. On the other hand, nasal congestion means your nose is too swollen to drain because of the release of histamines. The mucus has to go somewhere, so it drains down the back of your throat.
How allergies affect your dental condition
When you are congested and blow your nose, does it ever make your teeth hurt? Tooth pain is a rather common symptom of seasonal allergies, because the maxillary sinus cavities are located right above the roots of your upper molars. Sinus congestion and pressure also exert pressure on those tooth roots.
Dry mouth is another common effect of allergies, usually due to the congestion that makes you breathe through the mouth. This mouth breathing dries out your gums and the tissues of your mouth, diminishing saliva production in the process. Less saliva also elevates your risk of oral issues such as bad breath and tooth decay, because saliva serves as a natural lubricant to wash away food particles and bacteria and neutralize any acids in the mouth that were present in the foods and drinks you consume.
How do antihistamines affect your oral health?
Now that you know about histamines, it probably makes sense that allergy medicines are called antihistamines, as they counter the effects. Many people take an antihistamine daily to combat allergies. However, these medicines can dry out your nose as well as your mouth, and that dryness can lead to all of the potential oral ramifications listed above. Make sure to consult your general physician before taking an antihistamine daily, even if it is available over the counter, and let your dentist know this is among the medications you are taking.
Treating all your oral health issues in the Okemos area
At Tenaglia Smiles, we offer much more than cleaning teeth or filling cavities. We can provide treatments and procedures to safeguard your oral health and prevent conditions such as dry mouth from compromising your teeth. Find out why Dr. Christine Tenaglia has been named Okemos’ favorite dentist. Call us at (517) 347-6733 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.