Allergy season in Asheville has officially arrived, bringing a not-so-sweet bouquet of sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. But while you’re stocking up on tissues and eye drops, don’t overlook an unexpected side effect of springtime allergies: their impact on your oral health. 

In Western North Carolina, grass and tree pollen levels stay moderate to high for weeks. So, exactly how do allergies affect your mouth, teeth, and gums? Keep reading–we’re breaking it all down! 

While allergies are often associated with sneezing and congestion, they can also impact oral health in surprising ways.

Ways Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Your Teeth

Seasonal allergy symptoms can range from dry mouth to inflamed gums. Allergens, such as pollen and dust, can trigger an allergic reaction in the body, leading to various oral health issues. Here’s how allergy season in Asheville could be behind that mouth misery you didn’t see coming: 

• Dry mouth. Allergies can inflame your nose and throat, leading to nasal congestion. When nasal breathing becomes difficult, you may need to breathe through your mouth, which can reduce saliva production. A dry mouth increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. 

• Toothache from blocked sinuses. Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinus lining, can cause pressure in the sinuses. Since the upper sinuses sit above the upper back teeth, this pressure can cause a toothache in the upper jaw, often misdiagnosed as dental pain. 

• Gum inflammation. Allergic reactions can cause the gums to become red, swollen, and tender–classic signs of gingivitis. This inflammation may result from immune responses or postnasal drip irritating the gum tissue. 

• Difficulty wearing dentures. Allergies may cause gum tissue to swell, making dentures feel tighter or more uncomfortable. This can lead to sore spots, irritation, or difficulty keeping dentures in place. 

• Tooth sensitivity. Allergy-related inflammation can affect the roots of your teeth, leading to increased sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. 

• Dental pain and sore throat. Seasonal allergies often cause excess mucus production, leading to postnasal drip and sore throats. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes or sinus pressure from prolonged congestion can radiate as pain in the jaw or teeth, sometimes accompanied by fever.
  

• Bad breath. An increase in nasal discharge and mucus due to allergies can contribute to bad breath. When mucus builds up in the throat or sinuses, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. 

While allergies are often associated with sneezing and congestion, they can also impact oral health in surprising ways. It’s essential to maintain a thorough dental care routine during allergy season in Asheville! 

5 Tips for Managing Seasonal Allergies and Oral Health Issues 

Spring, pollen, and congestion–yikes! Don’t worry. We have five simple and helpful ways to stay one step ahead of sniffles and cavities. 

1. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and mouth well-hydrated. Staying hydrated helps flush out excess mucus and can relieve dry mouth. 
2. A warm saltwater gargle can soothe your throat, loosen mucus in the sinuses, and help reduce bad breath and plaque buildup. 
3. Brushing and flossing become even more critical when dealing with dry mouth. A consistent oral care routine helps protect against plaque and other issues. 
4. Clearing allergens from your passages with nasal rinses or an irrigation system can reduce congestion. This may ease allergy-related symptoms that affect your mouth and throat. 
5. Practicing better sleep hygiene is a great way to lessen allergy symptoms. This includes less blue light before bed, establishing a regular bedtime, taking a decongestant at night, dusting ceiling fans, closing your windows, and washing bedsheets and pillowcases frequently.

Moreover, visit your dentist regularly so they can help identify and treat any issues early. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, be sure to mention it to your dentist. They can determine whether it’s allergy-related or caused by other issues. 

Breathe Easy, Smile Bright at Asheville Dental. 

Taking control of your oral health can also help you manage your allergies. While over-the-counter solutions may provide some relief, addressing underlying dental concerns could make a significant difference. 

If you suspect that allergy season in Asheville is affecting your oral health, contact Asheville Dental. We’ll tackle the aggravation of allergies together so you can enjoy the best of springtime.