The allergy season is just about here, but did you know a stuffy nose can affect your dental health?

Dry Mouth

People who live with allergies often also live with a dry mouth – this is a result of both the side affects of antihistamine medication and mouth breathing because of a blocked nose. A drier mouth increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease as saliva helps to wash away harmful bacteria.

Sinuses and Tooth Pain

Allergies can also cause tooth pain, especially if your sinuses begin to fill up with mucus. The increase in pressure can cause tooth pain in your upper back molars. If the pain doesn’t go away after taking antihistamines it is best to make an appointment.

If you are affected by allergies make sure you keep up with regular brushing and flossing and that you stay well hydrated. Treating allergies can help reduce their impact on your dental health.

How to Naturally Control Your Hay Fever Symptoms

Anyone who has ever put up with the misery of hay fever will dread the warmer weather. Listed below are a few ways to naturally control your symptoms this spring.

• Vaseline: A smear of Vaseline or another balm around your nostrils creates a barrier that can help trap pollen.
• Sunglasses: Hay fever is the perfect reason to buy a new pair of sunglasses. Choose a wrap-around style for more protection.
• Weather Apps: If you haven’t already, download a weather app to keep track of pollen counts locally. This can help you to plan events and to decide when it is better to stay indoors.
• Quercetin & Vitamin C: Onions and apples contain quercetin, a natural antihistamine. Vitamin C is another natural antihistamine, so eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Close Your Windows: Your windows create a physical barrier to pollen, so keep them shut if you can and especially at night when the pollen count is often higher.
• Dry Your Laundry Inside: Pollen can stick bedsheets and clothes dried outside. Drying your laundry indoors might be less convenient, but it could reduce the severity of your hay fever.
• Shower Often: Pollen sticks to your clothes and to your hair and skin. Showering and washing your hair helps to eradicate pollen.