Asthma can make it hard for some people to care for their teeth, especially if their condition is unmanaged. Asthma can bring about mucus buildup, inflammation attacks, and restrict the airways to the point where it can cause problems for the mouth. Harmful strains of bacteria can often develop more quickly for those who have asthma, and with that develops a giant collection of dental issues in the future. If you’re wanting to learn about caring for your teeth, we’re here to inform you about what dental issues often occur with asthma patients, why they develop more frequently, and what you can do to further protect your teeth and gums from harm.
Why Oral Issues and Asthma Occur More Frequently
Not only is asthma a respiratory disease, but it’s a condition that greatly affects other aspects of your health too. The involuntary reactions caused by coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness can be influenced by outside factors, such as pollutants, stress, and allergies. Preventative methods for this condition, such as medications, measuring trigger responses, and other methods, can have side effects that affect your oral health.
When it comes to why oral health issues occur more for those with asthmas, it’s often because of the side effects that inflammation in the lungs brings. When the airways inflame, the lungs can make it more difficult for the mouth to produce saliva. Asthma patients can also have difficulties with saliva production due to the effects of their medications. Some medications, such as asthma inhalers, can dry out the mouth and inhibit saliva production. Constant inflammation from the lungs and saliva depletion from medications, and asthma attacks can lead to an increased amount of bacteria growth in the mouth. With this, the bacteria can be difficult to control and lead to oral issues such as dry mouth, oral sores, and halitosis.
The Best Oral Solutions For Asthma Patients
Preventative methods matter the most. If you’re aware of the triggers and medications helping you manage your asthma, then our tips can help further protect your teeth and gums and reduce the risk of oral diseases, including:
- Mouth Rinses: After taking your medication, rinsing your mouth out with water can help your mouth rebuild saliva and protect your mouth from bacteria buildup.
- Brushing and Flossing: Brushing and flossing daily is one of the biggest recommendations dentists can give to asthma patients, as it helps protect your teeth and gums from cavities and gum disease.
- Drinking Water: Staying hydrated can help prevent oral problems from occurring because it aids the mouth in saliva production, which can help after the onset of an asthma attack.
Speaking with your dentist about any dental problems you may have can be the best resource you have for taking care of your teeth. For more information, speak with your dentist about how your asthma harms your oral health, and they can help provide you with ways to manage your condition and have a healthy smile.
