When hay fever season hits, most of us brace for sneezing fits, itchy eyes and a runny nose – but did you know it can also affect your teeth and gums?
While commonly known as allergic rhinitis, hay fever can have a knock-on effect on your oral health, especially during peak pollen months. From dry mouth to unexpected toothache, understanding the link between seasonal allergies and dental symptoms is an important step in protecting your smile.
We caught up with Dr Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer here at mydentist, to get the find out everything you need to know about hay fever and its unexpected impact on your teeth – plus what you should do if you have any concerns.
Hay fever can cause toothache
“One symptom people may experience with hay fever is toothache,” commented Nyree. “This can be caused by a build-up in your sinuses which, in turn, puts pressure on the roots of your teeth, causing discomfort.”
The sinuses sit just above your upper back teeth, so when they become inflamed due to allergies, the pressure can sometimes be felt as a dull ache or tenderness in your teeth. It’s a common but often overlooked symptom of hay fever – and one that many people mistake for a dental issue.
Your dry mouth might be caused by allergies
Hay fever can also cause dry mouth – especially if you’re experiencing congestion and find yourself breathing through your mouth more often.
“This could have a knock-on effect on your oral health,” commented Nyree, “as saliva is essential in preventing oral health issues and combating bacteria. Having a dry mouth may cause symptoms such as bad breath and an increased chance of developing cavities.”
Saliva helps neutralise acids, wash away food particles and protect against tooth decay. So, when allergy symptoms or medication (such as antihistamines) reduce your saliva levels, it can create the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow.
Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your oral health during allergy season.
“There is a wide range of simple steps you can take to improve these symptoms,” continued Nyree. “If you are experiencing dryness in your mouth, make sure you drink plenty of water to counteract this. If you’re experiencing a mild toothache due to congestion and hay fever, over-the-counter antihistamines should help to alleviate any discomfort.”
Staying hydrated, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash can all help maintain your oral hygiene – even if you're feeling under the weather.
Nyree continued: “However, if you are experiencing toothache, then it’s recommended that you contact your dentist to ensure that it is connected to hay fever, and that it isn’t a sign of an underlying problem.”
Research says there’s even a link between poor oral health and allergies
Research also supports a strong link between allergic rhinitis and poor oral health. In a large study of over 136,000 teenagers, those reporting multiple oral health symptoms, such as sore or bleeding gums, toothache, and bad breath, were about 1.4 times more likely to have allergic rhinitis compared to those without any symptoms.
This finding suggests that allergies like hay fever aren't just making you sneeze –they’re tied to real oral health issues. Inflammation, mouth breathing and decreased saliva play a role, meaning if you're suffering from hay fever and start to notice gum discomfort, tooth pain or persistent bad breath, it's not just coincidence- it may signal a need for extra attention to your oral care routine during allergy season.
Look after your teeth and gums by maintaining a regular oral health routine. Bursh your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, and regular dental check-ups.
Is hay fever affecting your oral health?
While hay fever might start with a sneeze, its effects can reach much further – including your mouth. By understanding how allergies affect your oral health and taking steps to manage your symptoms, you can keep your teeth and gums protected through the seasons.
And remember, if you're ever unsure whether your symptoms are allergy-related or something more, we're here to help you maintain a healthy oral health. If you suspect that hay fever is affecting your smile – talk to your dentist and explore your options. If you're new to mydentist and looking for a practice, find your local mydentist practice today. Or, browse our comprehensive treatment offering or find more information about mydentist at www.mydentist.co.uk.