Asthma and Oral Health

People with asthma face particular oral health challenges. They have heightened levels of dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, and are more vulnerable to tooth decay as a result. The staff at Bridge Smiles Dental Group in Somerset County works hard to take each patient’s oral health needs into account when providing treatment, and we want patients with asthma to understand how they may be affected.

Inflammation in the nose leads many people to breathe through their mouths. This is a problem for oral health because saliva plays a crucial part in neutralizing acid that would otherwise erode enamel and trigger gum recession. Saliva also helps to dislodge bacterial build-up. Asthma patients may additionally suffer from acid reflux due to taking muscle relaxants for their throats that also open the sphincter between the esophagus and the stomach. Another risk is from sugars in inhalant medication that can coat the mouth, so patients may want to use it prior to brushing their teeth at night.

We don’t advise asthma patients to change their medications without consulting with their doctors, but if they’ve developed gingivitis, they may want to inquire about alternatives. If a patient is suffering from dry mouth, they may try a throat moisturizer or stimulating new saliva production by chewing sugar free gum.

Drs. Meghadri and Grewal run Bridge Smiles Dental Group at 820 US Hwy 202 North Neshanic Station, NJ, and 15 North Bridge St. Somerville, NJ. To schedule an appointment, visit Bridge Smiles Dental.