Spring is right around the corner. For many, spring is a time of celebration. It's time to come out of hibernation and start enjoying time outdoors, taking in the blooming flowers and trees.

However, if you suffer from allergies, you may be dreading the effects that spring can have on you. Itchy, watery, eyes, runny nose, nasal congestion. Believe it or not, your allergies can have a serious impact on your oral health. Here's how.

Tooth Pain

You have several sinus cavities in your head. Your maxillary sinus cavities, which are the largest, are located right above your upper jawbone. When the sinus cavities fill with fluid, the building pressure pushes down on the roots of your teeth.

The pressure leads to inflammation of the roots, which then leads to pain and sensitivity. Antihistamines can help to relieve sinus pressure, but they can also cause some trouble of their own.

Dry Mouth

A side effect of many antihistamines is dry mouth. The medications interfere with your saliva production. And saliva plays an important role in your oral health. It contains enzymes that kill bacteria in the mouth and wash them away.

It also neutralizes acids and provides the nutrients your teeth need to remain strong. Without sufficient saliva, bacteria have the perfect environment to thrive, multiplying faster than they are being destroyed, which can then lead to issues such as tooth decay and gum disease.

Sore Throat

While usually connected with a cold, a sore throat is a common complaint for those with allergies. This is because the increased mucous in the nasal sinuses leads to post-nasal drip, a condition in which excess mucous drips into the back of your throat. The tissues of the throat are sensitive, and are therefore easily irritated by the drip, which causes soreness. Post-nasal drip can also contribute to bad breath.

Staying hydrated and taking measures to treat your allergies are important steps in helping you to enjoy the changing seasons. You should also maintain a good oral hygiene regimen and visit your dentist at least twice a year. If your allergies are causing you tooth pain, make an appointment.

Tooth pain can be because of sinus pressure, but it can also point to something else. Please contact our office if you have any questions about your oral health.