Seasonal allergies can obnoxiously stuff up your day. Though we’re all for the warmer months, the allergies they bring are not so welcome. When the weather starts to warm, sneezes and wheezes are all too common. Toothaches are also common when allergies are in town. See how a toothache, allergies, and sinus pressure all go hand-in-hand.
Springtime means environmental irritants are out in full force. The growth of grasses and weeds paired with the wind toss irritants for miles. Your body doesn’t like when you inhale these tiny particles of pollen and dust. It tries its best to keep the harmful stuff out and releases chemicals called histamines. This results in:
- Runny nose.
- Itchy eyes.
- Sinus pressure.
- Increased mucus production.
The body’s response to an allergy is to absorb the outside irritant in mucus and can cause you serious congestion and discomfort. A side effect of this is more pressure in your maxillary sinus area, which is located under your cheekbones. Your back molars are also in the same area. So when there’s pressure built up, tooth pain is almost inevitable.
DON’T IGNORE ALLERGIES AND SINUS PRESSURE
Some allergy sufferers link their mouth misery to tooth decay. But they forget that allergies and sinus pressure are related! Your dentist can always tell if it’s simply sinus pressure or something more.
If you have pain in your sinuses or a toothache, the worst thing to do is ignore it. Even if they’re “just allergies,” these problems can seriously impact your quality of life. A simple trick you can try to figure out which it is. Lean forward and press your fingers against your cheekbones. If your pain or toothache increases, it’s probably sinus-related.
If you struggle with allergies, create a seasonal game plan with your doctor. This may include anti-histamines or nasal rinsing. To see what’s best for your allergy-caused toothache, talk with your dentist and your doctor.
Clues your tooth pain is not from allergies and requires a dental visit:
- You have a history of dental problems.
- Your pain is confined to one specific tooth.
- Tooth pain persists, even after allergy symptoms and pressure have subsided.
Seasonal allergies affect everyone differently. Your dentist and doctor can give you the most accurate diagnosis for your specific problems. Don’t wait for the pain to disappear — spring into action! Visit your doctor and dentist for a smile fit for all seasons.
To see the pollen count in your area, visit weather.com.