It has been said that allergy season is when your nose does more running than you do. Every season can be allergy season, depending on what a person might be allergic to. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), about 26% of the adult population and 19% of children experience seasonal allergic rhinitis, more commonly known as hay fever. Here’s an important thing to know: allergies and tooth pain are connected.
Season Allergies
In many areas of the United States, allergy season begins in February and lasts into the fall months. The most common culprits in the spring and summer are pollen from trees, grass, and flowering plants, as well as mold. In the fall, plants that can trigger allergies are Burning Bush, Cocklebur, Lamb’s-quarters, Pigweed, Sagebrush, Tumbleweed, and Russian Thistle. Ragweed is especially troublesome. Dander from pets can be bothersome year-round, but may cause more allergic reactions in the winter when houses are closed up.
Seasonal allergy symptoms include itching in the nose and throat, watery, itchy, red eyes, sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose, and coughing. For the effects of allergies and tooth pain, see your dentist.
Allergy Season in South Carolina
South Carolina is widely known for its warm weather, beautiful landscapes, and, unfortunately, its high pollen count. Springtime brings pollen from blooming flowers, as well as pollen from trees like oak, pine, and cedar. In the Summer, grass pollen levels peak, and mold spores thrive in the warm and humid climate. In the fall, ragweed becomes a major allergen. In the Winter, pollen levels decrease significantly, but indoor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold can trigger allergic symptoms. Allergies and tooth pain often coincide in each season. For spring dental pain in South Carolina, it is important to see your dentist.
Allergies and Tooth Pain
Allergies can affect you in these ways:
- Sometimes, with an allergy, the walls around your sinuses and nasal cavity become inflamed, causing headaches, facial pain, a runny nose, and nasal congestion. This is known as sinusitis. This condition can develop into a sinus infection and cause ear and toothaches. As the infection develops, pressure can build and drainage can increase to the point of causing pain in your teeth.
- Dry mouth occurs when nasal congestion forces you to breathe through your mouth. This reduces saliva flow, which can make your teeth more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
- Allergies can disrupt your normal oral hygiene routine. For example, nasal congestion or a sore throat can make brushing or flossing a chore. Skipping brushing or flossing can increase the risk of plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
- Sinus pressure in the teeth can lead to discomfort.
- Allergies can increase the potential for oral infections.
There are ways to overcome allergies and tooth pain. First, stay hydrated. Second, maintain oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Third, use a saline rinse. Fourth, use an over-the-counter allergy medication. Fifth, see your dentist regularly.
Seek Professional Dental Care
Contact Old Mt. Pleasant Dentistry, located right off Ben Sawyer Blvd in Mt. Pleasant. S.C., for dental care you can trust. We use practical treatment plans, using the most advanced technology. We offer caring routine dental care and procedures, including extractions and root canals. To us, you are the most important person in the office.