Seasonal Allergies & Oral Health

If your kiddos have been itching, sniffling, and sneezing lately, allergies may be to blame. In fact, a recent study shows that allergies may be starting earlier and be more severe than ever before. This could mean that more and more children are experiencing the side effects of high pollen counts, which is unpleasant in and of itself. But your pediatric dentist in Medford also wants you to know that allergies can also cause the body to react in such a way that could increase the risk for cavities and other dental problems. 

Mucky Mucus & Mouth Breathing

We’ve all experienced the surge of mucky mucus thanks to seasonal allergies. No matter how unpleasant this feeling is, it’s important to know that it’s a natural response. When we come in contact with an allergen, the body will overproduce mucus, which in turn will cause a stuffy nose. This can make it hard to breathe properly out of the nose, causing kids to breathe from the mouth. While the intake of oxygen is sure to please the body, the mouth may disagree. 

Why is Mouth Breathing a Bad Thing? 

While allergies themselves don’t necessarily directly cause oral health problems, the symptoms can, such as mouth breathing due to a buildup of mucus and a stuffy nose. When we breathe out of our mouths instead of our noses, our mouths dry out faster than normal. Dry mouth is caused by a lack of saliva, and a healthy mouth needs saliva to stay healthy. Without it, bad bacteria can linger around and cause bad breath, wear away at protective tooth enamel, cause cavities, and can even result in gum disease. 

Additionally, when mouth breathing is a persistent problem in a child, it can affect development. Your pediatric dentist in Medford has seen numerous cases where chronic mouth breathing, whether because of allergies or not, resulted in a gummy smile, problems with facial development, and the need for advanced dental work.

Tooth Pain

As if the icky overproduction of mucus potentially contributing to cavities and developmental concerns weren’t enough, this mucus can also cause pain. An excessive amount of mucus can put pressure on the sinuses, which a child may feel in their face or head. But this pressure can also extend to the maxillary sinuses, a nearby neighbor to the roots and nerves of the back teeth. When the maxillary sinuses are inflamed, it can put pressure on those nearby tooth nerves and cause discomfort. 

Allergy Medicine Can Help… And Hurt

Anyone suffering from allergies or who has a child dealing with the symptoms will often turn to allergy medication to alleviate the uncomfortable side effects of a flare-up. While these medications can relieve some of the stuffiness, itchiness, and drippiness, they too can sometimes cause dry mouth. But lucky for you, your pediatric dentist in Medford knows a few tricks that can reduce the likelihood of experiencing negative side effects of dry mouth, such as: 

• Chewing sugar-free gum
• Using lubricating mouthwash
• Drinking water
• Sleeping with a humidifier in your bedroom

Allergy season can feel neverending, but we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

About The Author

Dr. Eric Gheewalla

Dr. Eric Gheewalla specializes in orthodontics and is a certified Invisalign provider. He was an assistant clinical professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Massachusetts Dental Society, Tufts Association of Orthodontists, International College of Dentists, and the American Academy of Dental Science.

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