Spring is just around the corner, and so is allergy season. All that sneezing and coughing and congestion isn’t just annoying, it can harm your oral health! Here are some tips to keep your mouth happy and healthy during allergy season.
Stay Hydrated
With congestion, we tend to breathe through the mouth instead of the nose. This dries up salvia in the mouth which is harmful to overall oral health, because salvia is the mouth’s first line of defense against gum disease and tooth decay. Drinking water can help fight this response, re-hydrating the mouth and helping stimulate saliva glands. Chewing sugar-free gum is another great option to fight dry mouth.
Gargle with saltwater
Gargling saltwater is another line of defense for allergy season. Use a tablespoon of salt and let it dissolve in warm water before gargling. This will help with congestion in your sinuses along with reducing any irritation in your mouth.
Brush and floss often
It can be tempting to let your oral hygiene slide if you’re feeling under the weather, but don’t give in! It’s important to keep a consistent brushing and flossing routine while sick. This will help minimize bacteria build-up on teeth and gums. Also, be sure to replace your toothbrush after your allergies pass!
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, or need a regular cleaning, book an appointment with Jackson Dental! Call us at (573) 243-5200 or stop by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo. to get an appointment scheduled.