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Can Poor Oral Health Increase Allergies?

Posted on 6/16/2025 by Dr. Dani Stansell

Did you know that your oral health might play a role in your allergies? While you might not think of your mouth when you think of allergies, the two are more closely connected than you might realize. In this article, we'll explore how poor oral health can contribute to allergy development and what you can do to protect yourself.

The Link Between Oral Health and Allergies

Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to a foreign substance, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. This overreaction can lead to various symptoms like sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and skin irritation.

While many factors can influence the development of allergies, including genetics and environmental exposure, your oral health can also play a surprising role. Here are some of the ways poor oral health can worsen your allergies:

•	Increased inflammation: Poor oral hygiene and gum disease contribute to chronic inflammation throughout the body. This widespread inflammation can worsen allergy symptoms and make you more susceptible to developing new ones.
•	Oral bacteria and viruses: The presence of specific oral bacteria and viruses has been linked to an increased risk of developing allergies, particularly asthma. These microorganisms can trigger inflammation in the airways, leading to allergy symptoms.
•	Weakened immune system: Poor oral health can weaken your immune system, making your body less capable of fighting off infections and allergic reactions.
•	Dental work reactions: Certain dental materials, like latex, can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, some medications used in dentistry may exacerbate existing allergies.

Prevention Strategies: Combining Oral and Allergy Care

Fortunately, you can take steps to improve your oral health and potentially reduce your allergy symptoms. These strategies include:

•	Maintaining good oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help control plaque and bacteria that contribute to inflammation and allergies.
•	Seeing your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for identifying and treating early signs of gum disease and other oral health issues before they worsen.
•	Considering allergy testing: If you suffer from persistent allergies and suspect a possible connection to your oral health, talk to your doctor or allergist about allergy testing. This can help identify specific allergies and determine whether your oral health might be a contributing factor.
•	Communicating with your dentist: Inform your dentist about any known allergies, especially to latex or medications. This allows them to choose alternative materials and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Taking Charge of Your Health

While the relationship between oral health and allergies is complex, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health, including managing your allergies. By combining preventive dentistry practices with regular allergy care, you can improve your oral health and potentially minimize allergy symptoms, allowing you to breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

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Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879 | 984-477-0177 | stanselldentistry.com | 7/6/2025 | Key Phrases: dentist Raleigh NC |