When you are an asthmatic, the use of inhalers, breathing treatments and avoiding triggers are likely to be a regular and important part of your life. Unfortunately, the symptoms of asthma and the medications you take to control your illness can lead to some specific and alarming dental problems. Therefore, when you need to make sure that you can continue to enjoy good oral and respiratory health, it is a good idea to work with your dentist to determine appropriate ways to address the following issues.

#1-Dry Mouth

It is important to note that dry mouth can present much more of a problem than simply needing to carry around a water bottle all day and keep it beside your bed at night. In fact, when you do not have enough saliva in your mouth and develop dry mouth, bacteria that causes plaque are more likely to develop.

As a result, it will behoove you to ask whether you should avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol and cut down on the caffeine you consume, as they can make your mouth even drier. Your dentist may be able to recommend an appropriate mouthwash for you that can reduce your symptoms. In addition, some patients who experience the problem have found relief by including limited amounts of dentist-approved, sugar-free gum or candies.

#2-Sores In The Back Of Your Mouth

The use of your inhaler can lead to irritation within your mouth and result in painful sores in the same area. Any time that skin is irritated or raw, there is the possibility of infection. While you should always avoid changing any of your medications without first speaking to your primary physician about doing so, your dentist may be able to make suggestions to help prevent or treat the condition.

One remedy could be as easy as rinsing with clean water each time you use your inhaler, which may actually be in the directions provided with the inhaler. Conversely, it could also be the use of a prescription toothpaste featuring fluoride. Your dentist may also need to work with your physician to find equally effective medications for your asthma that do not result in painful mouth sores.

#3-Worn Down Teeth

An often-unknown dental problem that asthmatics can suffer from is known as Gastroesophageal Reflux, or GOR. It happens as the result of certain asthma medications with lower pH and the increased use of sugary drinks many asthmatics experience to combat the previously mentioned dry mouth.

The extra acid resulting from GOR and the high intake of acidic beverages can lead to teeth that wear down early in life. In that instance, your dentist will need to assess the severity of the damage and make the necessary repairs as soon as possible.

In conclusion, effectively treating asthma often requires the use of medications that could negatively impact your dental health. Since you should never make any changes to your medications without the advice of the prescribing physician, it is a good idea to discuss the above questions with your dentist in order to safeguard your healthy mouth. Contact a dentist like Edens Greg DMD to learn more.

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