Allergies and teeth. What’s the connection? Allergy season is in full bloom, and the sinus pressure that comes with hay fever not only affects your eyes and nose, it can also affect your teeth and gums. If you have a sudden toothache, seasonal allergies might be to blame. Sinus pain is a common symptom that your immune system is fighting to protect you from the onslaught of pollen and dust. Antihistamines can relieve a toothache that is related to allergies, but if the pain persists, it’s time to make an appointment with Dr. Shane S. Porter of Premier Dentistry of Eagle, and get to the “root” of the problem.

Symptoms to Look for in Allergy Related Tooth Pain

Tooth Pain

Some toothaches stem from sinus inflammation due to seasonal allergies. Symptoms are most commonly located in the upper molars, near your sinuses. The root tips of your upper molars can lead to uncomfortable pressure in your face and head. As the pressure builds, it carries to the roots of your teeth, making you feel as if you have a tooth infection. Congestion in your sinuses leads to mucus buildup, which can plug the sinuses, and inflame your upper molars. This is usually what causes your allergy related toothaches. Allergies can also lead to increased sensitivity to heat and cold in the teeth. Another symptom of allergy related toothaches is when the pain shifts as you change positions;  sit, stand or lie down. If you have been feeling toothache symptoms, such as pain on biting, and throbbing sensations, these symptoms may just be imitating an infected tooth, when sinus pressure is actually the culprit.

Allergies are not the only things to cause pain in our teeth and mouths, so it’s important to make sure you don’t have a more serious issue, such as a tooth infection, gingivitis, or cavities. Make an appointment to see Dr. Porter to be on the safe side.

Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common result of plants releasing their pollen, which causes seasonal allergies and may trigger post nasal drip. This occurs when the body produces extra mucus to try and eliminate the pollen spores. Most cases of post nasal drip clear up on their own, but complications can arise if it is left untreated. There is a chance for infection if germs cause the excess mucus to clog up the sinuses or Eustachian tube, which is the canal that connects the throat to the middle ear. Over-the-counter decongestants, such as Sudafed can help dry out the mucus, which alleviates caused by excess mucus.

Dry Mouth

Many people with allergies also suffer from dry mouth due to medications used to treat allergies. It also occurs when your nasal passages are blocked and you’re forced to breathe through your mouth more than usual. Your mouth tissues then become dry from constant contact with air. Dry mouth and seasonal allergies often go hand in hand. Having a dry mouth for a short time isn’t likely to have a long-lasting effect on your oral health, but if you have chronic allergies, it’s possible you’ll suffer from dry mouth for many years. This condition isn’t just uncomfortable, it also increases your chances of developing cavities, gum disease and bad breath. One of the main functions of saliva is to wash away harmful bacteria in your mouth, and the lack of saliva present with dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for cavity-causing bacteria to multiply. Allergy sufferers should stay hydrated to help alleviate this symptom.

Treatment

Once you have seen Dr. Porter and he has ruled out a tooth related problem, you can treat the symptoms of allergy-related tooth pain with over the counter medications. In order to treat sinus congestion and pressure, you have to eliminate the congestion that causes the pressure. Decongestants, like Claritin-D or antihistamines such as Claritin or Benadryl can bring relief. Flonase is a topical nasal spray that can help eliminate the sinus pressure if it is allergy related. If your toothache goes away after taking these medications, it is likely allergy-related. However, if the pain continues, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Porter again. Pain of any kind is difficult to live with, but tooth pain can be classified among the worst of the worst.   The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has some great resources for treating allergies that plague so many people at this time of year.

Tips for Eliminating Allergies That Cause Tooth Pain

• Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth and body hydrated. Not only can this counteract the effects of dry mouth, it can also help your body flush away the excess mucus build up in the sinuses.
• Gargle with salt water. Dissolve a tablespoon of salt water in a glass of warm water. Gargle, swish and spit until all the water is gone. The salt can help draw mucus out of your sinuses, relieving your symptoms. It also cuts down on harmful bacteria in your mouth and throat, reducing the effects of bad breath and plaque.
• Continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. This is especially important when you’re experiencing dry mouth.
• Avoid known triggers. Stay away from the trees, grasses and flowers that make you sneeze.

Learn More About Allergies and Teeth with an In-Office Consultation

Your toothache might not actually be a problem with your teeth. But even if you think these symptoms might be due to allergies, you should still come in and see Dr. Porter to rule out actual tooth problems like decay, abscess, etc. To schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Porter, call our office at (208) 546-0655. He can help you determine whether your tooth pain is allergy-related or caused by other problems.

Located at 467 South Rivershore Lane in Eagle, we also treat patients from the surrounding communities of Star, Middleton, Meridian, Garden City, and Boise, Idaho with comprehensive dentistry for the whole family.

Allergy-related dental pain is not something you have to suffer from. Give us a call today!