Could Your Asthma Be Affecting Your Oral Health This Fall?

Asthma is triggered easily during the fall season. Did you know that asthma also contributes to your oral health? Treatments for asthma such as corticosteroids inhalers may cause oral conditions such as dry mouth and oral thrush. These conditions can lead to additional oral problems such as increased plaque, cavities, TMJ disorder, gingivitis, and poor smelling breath.  If you’d like to schedule an exam to discuss any oral health conditions that are related to asthma treatments, please contact our office.

Asthma suffers are forced to breathe through their mouths, which causes dry mouth. Furthermore, dry mouth is also a side effect from asthma inhalers. When dry mouth occurs, less saliva is produced. Saliva is important to maintain a clean mouth. Dry mouth increases the risk of developing tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. If you notice a drier than usual mouth, do not hesitate to contact our dentist. Doing so helps reduce additional oral problems.

Oral thrush occurs when the use of inhalers causes an increased growth of yeast (thrush) in the mouth and throat. Thrush will produce white patches on the tongue and throughout your mouth. Rinsing your mouth with water or fluoride mouthwash after using an inhaler will help decrease the growth of thrush. Inhalers can also irritate your mouth and cause lesions, which can be treated at the dentist.

If you suffer from asthma, we highly recommend paying close attention to your daily oral hygiene habits, as you may be more prone to inflammation and disease. Even though asthma sufferers may be more vulnerable to dental conditions, routine dental care at home and high quality dental care from your dentist can help you significantly reduce these risks.

Contact us to schedule an appointment today!