Allergy Meds Can Damage Your Teeth – Here is How to Protect Them
Posted on 8/10/2020 by Brandon Cooley
Like or not, our teeth make a first impression. How we care for them, determines whether that impression is a good one, or a bad one. Everything that enters our system has the potential to affect our teeth, and that includes medications, such as an antihistamine, the most common allergy medication.
How Can an Antihistamine Damage My Teeth?
Antihistamines block histamine receptors, to bring relief from allergy symptoms. Unfortunately, by blocking the receptors, the release of saliva is also blocked. And without the release of saliva in our mouths, dry mouth is going to occur.
Dry mouth can cause problems such as, bad breath, irritated or swollen gums, and cavities. Our saliva in our mouths is there for a reason. It keeps our mouth, tongue, and teeth moisturized, and prevents too much food from sticking. When it becomes depleted, so do our teeth.
How Can I Protect My Teeth?
The need for allergy medication is often unavoidable. Stuffy noses and itchy, watery eyes leave us with little choice. Thankfully, there are a few things we can do to help prevent or improve dry mouth symptoms while taking antihistamines.
The most important step is to come into our office regularly for checkups. We can give you helpful advice, address your dry mouth issue, and check for possible tooth decay. Sometimes a fluoride rinse is recommended to help prevent cavities if you are at risk.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day… something we should all be doing anyway. If water isn't always convenient, you can also keep sugar free gum or mints on hand wherever you go. These can help in triggering the release of saliva in your mouth.
Always consult with your doctor before taking allergy medication. Although your teeth are at risk while using antihistamines, with proper care you can be allergy free, and still have healthy teeth.
Dentist Bellevue • About Cooley Smiles Bellevue For over 35 years, we've built a reputation for delivering quality general and cosmetic dental services available. Call or schedule an appointment today! Cooley Smiles, 4100 Factoria Blvd SE, Suite C, Bellevue, WA 98006-1262 + (425) 998-6998 + cooleysmiles.com + 10/4/2024 + Tags: dental office, dental office in bellevue wa, dental clinic
Like or not, our teeth make a first impression. How we care for them, determines whether that impression is a good one, or a bad one. Everything that enters our system has the potential to affect our teeth, and that includes medications, such as an antihistamine, the most common allergy medication.