Fall Allergies That Cause Dental Problems
Every time the seasons change, Kleenex and allergy medication are a top priority on our shopping list for the family. Spring is definitely prime time for allergies, but fall brings about another set of allergy triggers and plenty of cold symptoms to go around. Some of the main triggers include ragweed, mold, and dust mites. Unfortunately, about 75% of people who have spring allergies are also allergic to these common fall triggers – how awful! Where are these little guys hiding? Well…
Ragweed can actually travel hundreds of miles to disturb us during late summer and early fall months. Dust mites pop up when you first turn on the heat in your home, while mold spores hide out in damp piles of leaves. You know, those big piles your kids love jumping in. Did you know both dust mites and mold are often found in schools? Be sure to come in for a dental check-up when school starts or even when those allergies hit.
The Reason for Your Kid’s Toothaches
Seasonal effects on oral health may be hard to explain to kids, but simply put, your body tries to get rid of allergens through snot and phlegm, or that gunk in your nose and lungs. The cherry on top is that seasonal allergies and toothaches can go hand in hand. While some children experience earaches periodically, nothing is worse than a toothache.
Runny noses, itchy eyes, and facial pressure can quickly lead to horrible breath and sore molars. The sinuses that sit on your upper jaw want to drain, but when they are clogged during allergy season, pressure creates pain in your teeth and cheeks. Nothing a little TLC and a dental check-up can’t fix!
Preparing for Seasonal Allergies and Toothaches
The best thing to do for seasonal effects on oral health, you ask? Visit us! Come in for a dental check-up, and let us make sure you are not dealing with decay or an abscess. And hopefully, it’s only those pesky fall and spring seasonal allergies. In addition, grab those over the counter eye drops, nose spray, and decongestants safe for you and your child. Some allergies may even need an antihistamine or antibiotic to combat if infections set in. Here is a quick list of how to reduce seasonal effects on oral health:
- Don’t wear shoes inside the house
- Vacuum more often
- Change air filters frequently
- Keep your windows closed
- Try using a humidifier
- Rake and bag leaves from yard and gutters
- Place a warm compress on your face
- Mom, try a Neti pot (aka nasal saline wash)
Get rid of that bad breath from dry mouth and gunk filled nasal cavities. Like you always tell your children, “blow your nose” and “wash your hands.”
Conquer Seasonal Allergies…For Your Teeth’s Sake
Feeling more prepared for those surprise fall sniffles? Browse through our Tooth Talk for more helpful tips and advice for you and your children, as well as any events we would love for you all to hear about such as National Orthodontic Health Month. Don’t let the beautiful fall weather get you and the kids down and out. Schedule a check-up with us for the entire family!
