Does your child have asthma? As a parent, you’re probably already familiar with the challenges it brings, including the need for an inhaler, as well as the need to avoid any potential triggers of asthma attacks. But did you know that asthma can also affect your child’s oral health in some very real ways? The good news is that with a little extra awareness and the right dental care, you can help protect their smile! Here’s what you need to keep in mind.
The Link Between Asthma and Oral Health
It might seem like asthma is strictly a breathing problem, but the mouth and the lungs are more connected than most people realize. That said, children with asthma face a few specific challenges that can put their teeth at greater risk:
- Mouth breathing – When kids struggle to breathe through their nose, they tend to breathe through their mouths instead. This reduces saliva flow and dries out the mouth, and without the body’s first line of defense against bacteria, cavities become much more likely.
- Gum inflammation – Studies show that children with asthma are at a much higher risk of gum disease, since they experience more gum inflammation due to their asthma, whether it’s a result of inhaler use, asthma attacks, or inadequate oral hygiene.
- Temperature sensitivity – The medicine found in many types of rescue inhalers might effectively thwart asthma attacks, but it can also settle in the mouth. Since it can be acidic, this can cause enamel erosion that weakens the teeth and causes sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
Tips for Keeping Your Child’s Smile Problem-Free
Fortunately, there are quite a few ways to protect your child’s dental health, no matter what their asthma has to say about it! Keep these tips in mind:
- After they use their inhaler, have them rinse their mouth with water. This small step can help to wash away medicine residue and ensure their mouth remains moist.
- Encourage them to remain hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water instead of sugary or acidic drinks.
- Make sure they’re keeping up with a consistent oral hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing twice a day.
- Likewise, ensure they attend both biannual dental checkups and cleanings each year so their dentist can keep an eye on things.
Asthma already comes with enough complications—but you don’t have to let it impact your child’s growing smile!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics has served families in Nashua and the surrounding area for several years under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy, Dr. Sadaf Mostafavian, and Dr. Magdu Gaul. We offer a variety of preventive, restorative, and emergency services for children of all ages, as well as complete orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule a visit for your child, you can call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (603) 880-5002.