Monday, July 24, 2023

Understanding Allergies and Dry Mouth

Experienced dentists can help you with wisdom teeth extraction, all on 4 teeth in a day implants, and give advice on oral hygiene. In addition, they are also able to tackle problems relating allergies and dry mouth, which might not be as common or easily understood by everyone.

all on 4 teeth in a day

 Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a typically harmless substance, known as an allergen. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, and insect venom. When exposed to an allergen, the immune system releases chemicals, such as histamine, which trigger allergic symptoms. 

Allergic reactions can manifest in various ways, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, and skin rashes. While allergies primarily affect the respiratory system and skin, they can indirectly impact oral health, including the onset of dry mouth, which is actually more common than most people think. 

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition characterized by a reduced saliva flow or insufficient saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by helping with digestion, lubricating the mouth, and protecting against tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, insufficient saliva can lead to various oral health issues.

 Allergies (and the methods used to deal with them), particularly those affecting the respiratory system, can contribute to dry mouth in a variety of ways. Some of these may include, nasal congestion, the use of various medications that may induce dry mouth as a side effect (such as antihistamines), or certain allergy-related conditions like postnasal drip.