Spring is around the corner (finally!). But with the much-welcomed warmer weather comes less-welcome seasonal allergies.
Runny noses, itchy eyes, and sneezing can make this time of year uncomfortable. When you’re managing orthodontic treatment at the same time, it can add a unique set of challenges. But don’t worry—handling allergy season while continuing your orthodontic care is totally doable. We have some helpful tips and strategies for this season.
How Do Allergies Affect Your Orthodontic Health?
Seasonal allergies are caused by your immune system overreacting to allergens like pollen, grass, or mold. Symptoms may include nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, sore throat, and sinus pressure. While these can make daily life uncomfortable, they can also have a direct impact on your oral health and orthodontic treatment.
Mouth Breathing and Dryness
One of the most common issues during allergy season is nasal congestion, which can lead to mouth breathing. Breathing through your mouth can be normal, but when done too much of the time, it reduces your saliva production.
Since saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles, this can leave you more susceptible to dry mouth, tooth decay, and bad breath. For patients wearing braces or aligners, this increases the risk of bacteria buildup around brackets and aligners.
Sinus Pressure and Tooth Discomfort
Seasonal allergies often lead to sinus pressure. This pressure can cause tenderness or discomfort in the upper jaw, which some patients mistake for tooth pain. It doesn’t mean something is wrong with your orthodontic treatment—it may just be a normal consequence of allergy season. Unfortunately, since braces adjustments and switching to new clear aligners can also cause discomfort, the combination can be, well, a pain.
Tips for Managing Allergy Symptoms with Orthodontics
Here’s how you can stay on top of both your allergies and your orthodontic care.
Prioritize Oral Hygiene
Since allergies can increase the risk of dry mouth and bacteria buildup, you should take extra care in maintaining excellent oral hygiene.
- Brush Thoroughly at Least Twice a Day: Make sure to brush around brackets, wires, and aligners thoroughly, especially after meals to remove food particles.
- Floss Daily: If flossing is tough, use floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or a water flosser to clean between teeth and around braces.
- Use Mouthwash: Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to help prevent cavities and freshen your breath.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps combat dry mouth caused by both allergies and mouth breathing. Staying hydrated also helps thin mucus, which may alleviate nasal congestion.
Keep Your Appliances Clean
For aligner-wearers, allergens like pollen can cling to your aligners. Rinse them under running water every time you remove them, and clean them daily using a clear aligner cleaner or gentle soap. The same rules apply if you wear a retainer after braces.
Handle Appliances with Clean Hands
When you’re navigating seasonal allergies, clean hands are non-negotiable. Wash your hands before placing or removing aligners to avoid transferring allergens or bacteria into your mouth.
Adjust Your Diet
If allergies are making you feel unwell or you’re experiencing tooth or jaw discomfort, stick to foods that are easier to chew. Soft foods like smoothies, yogurt, soup, and steamed vegetables can help. Avoid sticky or hard-to-chew foods that might damage your braces.
Choose an OTC Painkiller
Occasional use of over-the-counter pain medications can help alleviate soreness and discomfort caused by orthodontic treatment. Be careful to follow dosing instructions carefully and keep in mind these medications should not be used long-term.
When to Check in with Your Orthodontist
While many allergy-related issues will resolve on their own, some symptoms can impact your orthodontic treatment and require professional attention.
- Lingering Jaw or Tooth Pain: If you experience ongoing discomfort, contact your orthodontist to rule out any orthodontic issues.
- Broken Appliances: If any parts of your braces or aligners are damaged, don’t wait until your next scheduled visit—get them repaired as soon as possible.
- Changes in Treatment Progress: If severe allergy symptoms make it difficult to wear your aligners for the recommended number of hours each day, reach out to your orthodontist to discuss adjustments to your treatment plan.
Warmer Weather, Here We Come!
If you’re dealing with spring allergies and have concerns about your orthodontic care, schedule an appointment with us today. Together, we’ll keep you on track to your perfect smile—no matter the season.
