Respiratory diseases and your oral health

Ever noticed that a bout of asthma often leaves you with dry mouth after? That’s because regular use of inhalation sprays to treat asthma can cause symptoms of dry mouth. It is not just inhalants that can alter the natural chemistry of your mouth, leading to oral problems. Other medications used to treat other types of respiratory diseases can also impact your oral health.

Asthma
Several drugs that are commonly used in the treatment of asthma have side effects that include xerostomia or dry mouth. Many inhalers used by asthma patients contain corticosteroids. These anti-inflammatory drugs not only dry up the saliva supply in the mouth, but also place you at risk for oral fungal infections. These medications can also delay the natural healing process which means that you could find healing after a dental procedure taking longer than normal. If you have been prescribed a corticosteroids-containing inhaler, use a spacer every time you inhale your medication. A spacer is a plastic tube that can be fixed to the inhaler. This reduces your risk of contracting a fungal infection. Remember to rinse your mouth thoroughly after inhalation. Anti asthma drugs like chromalyn can leave you with an unpleasant taste in your mouth and throat irritation. When you visit your dentist, bring a list of your medications. Keep your dentist informed about your asthma history, including your latest attack, triggers or any episodes that required hospitalization. Steroid use can affect your adrenal glands which are responsible in helping you cope with stress. Thus, you may find yourself more stress during dental visits. That’s why it is important to inform your dentist about any long term steroid use. Besides, theophylline and other asthma drugs may react with dental medications.

Bronchitis, Emphysema and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
People who suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, emphysema and bronchitis may be prescribed steroids which can affect the functioning of the adrenal glands. This can not only make them more stressed, but also expose them to a greater risk of oral thrush infection. Patients may find it uncomfortable to lie down in a dental chair because it makes breathing difficult. Inform your dentist of this problem, and he will be able to work something out to make you comfortable.

Sinusitis
People who suffer from sinus infection or sinusitis frequently experience teeth pain. This pain may be experienced in more than one tooth. The cause of the pain is the sinus infection itself, and is not related to any dental problem. Medications used to treat sinusitis can lead to dry mouth, placing you at risk of cavities and fungal infections. People with sinusitis tend to breathe through their mouth, and this tends to lead to dry mouth and oral irritation. Inform your dentist of medications you are taking to treat your sinusitis.