When you think about spring, budding trees, warmer weather and blooming flowers probably come to mind. However, while spring is a beautiful time of year, it’s also allergy season. As those newly budding and blooming plants release pollen, your allergies kick in and leave you feeling miserable. Inhale that pollen and your immune system can release histamines into your bloodstream. This may leave you with teary and itchy eyes, sneezing, a runny nose, sinus pressure and congestion.
Aching, Painful Teeth
Your allergies are acting up, but why are your teeth hurting? Allergies have the potential to cause tooth pain — particularly in the molars. Your maxillary sinuses are usually affected by seasonal allergies. When pressure and congestion build in those sinuses, it can result in pressure in the head and face. Since the root tips of your upper molars are very close to those maxillary sinuses, the pressure and congestion may affect the roots of your teeth. In turn, causing pain and inflammation in the upper molars.
Problems With Oral Dryness
If you have allergies, you may be suffering from oral dryness, as well. Not only can allergies result in dry mouth, but any allergy medications you take may also cause dryness. Saliva is full of important antibacterial enzymes, which work to prevent tooth decay and keep your breath fresher. A lack of saliva can increase your risk of gingivitis and cavities, and it can cause bad breath.
Preventing Allergy-Associated Tooth Pain
To prevent allergy-associated tooth pain, it’s important to prevent sinus pressure from developing due to allergies. If possible, try limiting your time outdoors on high-pollen days to prevent problems. In many cases, over-the-counter decongestants can be used to help relieve the pressure in the sinuses, reducing the tooth pain. Taking antihistamines can help suppress the release of histamines causing the allergy symptoms. For severe allergies, a nasal spray may be needed to help relieve allergy symptoms and associated tooth pain. Remember, many of these medications can make dry mouth even worse, so focus on staying hydrated to fight the oral health problems that can come with dry mouth.
Even if you think your allergies are the root cause of your tooth pain, if the pain persists, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist. Your dentist can check your teeth and gums to make sure you’re not dealing with a more serious issue — such as a cavity, tooth infection or gingivitis. Don’t allow tooth pain to get out of control. Book an appointment with your dentist today to determine the cause of pain so it can be treated effectively.