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Well wants me, barely wants me... discover the relationship between spring, allergies and oral health!
Undoubtedly, the most typical phenomenon of spring is seasonal allergy, also known as allergic rhinitis. With the arrival of this season, plants release more pollen into the air – especially trees, herbs and flowers – which causes various symptoms and this relationship between allergies and oral health.
From above come the allergies and we immediately think of sneezing, itching in the eyes or skin rashes. However, and despite being often ignored, the impact of allergies on oral health can have real consequences for teeth, gums and even facial growth, the latter affecting, above all, children.
In this article we will explain how allergies can affect the health of your mouth, as well as give some practical advice to prevent complications.
Contents approached
Allergies are exaggerated responses of the immune system to harmless substances (such as pollen, mites or certain foods). They can manifest in various ways – from classic allergic rhinitis to more complex dietary reactions.
This phenomenon is quite common at this time of year because the immune system is exposed to these triggers.
In addition to allergies, other typical spring phenomena include:
- Increased temperature and more hours of sunlight
- Blossoming of flowers and trees
- Increased insect activity (such as bees and mosquitoes)
- Mood and energy changes associated with the so-called "spring effect"
Data from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, estimates that up to 40% of children and 30% of adults suffer from some kind of allergy.
Seasonal allergy or any other can directly affect your mouth, as we will now see.
Allergies and oral health: know the oral symptoms caused by allergies
Allergies can manifest through your mouth, so there are a number of oral symptoms that you should be aware of.
In addition, allergies can cause a number of oral symptoms. Here are the most frequent:
- 1. Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Many allergy medications (such as antihistamines) reduce the production of saliva. This can lead to:
- Bad breath
- Increased risk of cavities
- gingivitis
- Discomfort when swallowing or chewing
Saliva is essential for keeping your mouth safe from bacteria. Without it, everything becomes more vulnerable.
- 2. Oral Allergy Syndrome (OA)
This phenomenon mainly affects people who are allergic to pollen. After eating certain foods (such as apples, hazelnuts, carrots…), oral symptoms of allergies may arise such as:
- Itching in the mouth
- Swelling of the lips or tongue
- Burning throat
This is explained by cross-reactivity between food proteins and pollen proteins – confusing the immune system*.
- 3. Oral inflammations
Allergies can also trigger glossitis (inflammation of the tongue) or ardor, especially when associated with certain foods or dental products.
- 4. Allergic rhinitis and oral breathing
If you breathe through your mouth due to allergic rhinitis (most common in children), this can affect your oral health. Prolonged oral breathing may:
- Dry your mouth constantly
- Alter the development of facial bones and dentition in children
- Increase the risk of cavities and gingivitis
According to the Order of Dentists (OMD), nasal breathing is fundamental for balanced development of the face and dental arch and there is a relationship between oral respiration and teeth.
- 5. Allergies to dental materials
Although rare, it is possible to be allergic to some materials used in dental treatments:
- Latex (in gloves)
- Metals such as nickel
- Acrylic resins or orthodontic glues
Therefore, it is essential to inform our dentists about any allergy history before starting any treatment at A Clínica Dr. Pedro Mota, if necessary, and following the recommendation of the American Dental Association (ADA), it may be necessary to carry out sensitivity tests.
For all that we have said, and if you have known allergies, follow these recommendations to keep your oral health up to date:
- Stay well hydrated, especially if you take antihistamines
- Double oral hygiene: brushing 2x/day, dental floss and tongue cleaning
- Avoid foods that provoke you cross reactions
- Always inform your dentist about your allergies
- Have regular check-ups with a professional
Effectively, allergies not only affect the nose or skin but can also impact your mouth health. Being aware of symptoms and having the right follow-up is crucial to prevent major problems that affect your oral health.
If you have frequent oral symptoms and have already been diagnosed with allergies, it is time to schedule an appointment at A Clínica Dr. Pedro Mota.
Now you can breathe in the scents of spring and smile peacefully!
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