Our oral health is part of an interwoven system of health that can affect and affect a range of health concerns. Among them is the respiratory condition known as asthma, which has been discovered to have surprising links to oral health concerns. Understanding these concerns makes it possible to address them and help prevent these problems from becoming a reality. Below we’ll discuss the link between these two conditions and what precautions you can take to keep asthma from impacting your oral health.

Asthma is a condition faced by around 8% of all Americans.

Breathing Problems Are Just The Start Of Asthma Related Concerns

Things that impact how we breathe have been shown to have a direct effect on our oral health. Those who engage in significant amounts of physical exercise are probably familiar with this concern, for instance. When altered breathing patterns combine with medication and other health concerns, a problematic situation for our oral health may arise. Two of the most frequent oral health concerns experienced by those living with asthma include:

• Dry Mouth – The restriction of the airways can result in increased incidents of dry mouth in asthma patients. This condition deprives our mouth of bacteria-fighting saliva, which leaves our teeth vulnerable to decay. Some asthma medications can also cause this condition.
• Oral Sores – Ulcers are a condition experienced by some asthma sufferers due to the medication that they use. These oral sores can make proper dental care difficult or uncomfortable.
• Thrush – Dry mouth and certain reactions to the medication can actually make asthma patients more susceptible to thrush. Thrush is a fungal condition resulting from the growth of yeast in the mouth and on the tongue. It’s often accompanied by a burning sensation.

Those with asthma often experience increased incidents of halitosis, tooth decay, periodontal disease, and more. The conditions listed above are partially responsible, but there are techniques that can be employed to help limit their appearance. Those who live with allergies are likely to be familiar with these conditions, especially if your allergies exist alongside asthma. Speak to your dental care provider if you suffer from one or both of these conditions.

Saliva is one of the prime defenses our body has against bacteria and tooth decay.

How To Prevent Asthma Related Oral Health Concerns

Those suffering from asthma have a variety of options available to keep their smile looking great. It starts with a steady and consistent oral hygiene routine with brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use. Rinsing after using your inhaler is another valuable step you can take to address dry mouth and help you remain hydrated. If you notice that you are more prone to cavities after starting inhaler use, see if there are alternative inhalers your dentist can suggest.