The warmer weather brings a burst of colour and joy for most, but for many, it also heralds the arrival of seasonal allergies and hay fever. While you may be familiar with the typical symptoms, like sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes, did you know that your oral health can also be impacted? 

Read on to explore the connection between seasonal allergies and your oral health, plus expert advice on managing allergy symptoms when they strike.

Seasonal Allergies and Hay Fever

For those who are lucky enough not to suffer with seasonal allergies and hay fever, they are immune system responses triggered by exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mould spores. When your body perceives these substances as threats, it releases histamines, which lead to the classic allergy symptoms.

Impact on Your Oral Health

Dry Mouth

One common side effect of allergies and hay fever is dry mouth. When you breathe through your mouth due to nasal congestion, it reduces saliva production, leading to dryness. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by rinsing away food particles, neutralising acids, and protecting against bacteria. Without enough saliva, you may be at a higher risk of bad breath or in more extreme cases, enamel damage and cavities, requiring teeth erosion treatment or dental fillings. 

Sinus Pain

Sinus pressure and pain are hallmark symptoms of allergies and hay fever. The sinuses are located close to the upper back teeth, and when they become inflamed, you may experience discomfort in your teeth and jaw. This referred pain can sometimes be mistaken for a dental issue, but it’s always best to get your symptoms checked. 

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

Allergies can exacerbate tooth sensitivity, making your teeth more reactive to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods and drinks. If you already have sensitive teeth, allergies may intensify this sensation, causing discomfort or pain when consuming certain foods or beverages.

Tips for Looking After Your Oral Health During Allergy Season

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth and promote saliva production. Hydration is essential for overall health (especially during hot weather) and can help alleviate dryness in the mouth.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Stick to your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Pay extra attention to cleaning your tongue and gums to remove bacteria and prevent plaque build-up.

Use Saline Nasal Sprays

Saline nasal sprays can help alleviate nasal congestion and reduce sinus pressure which can help ease any associated tooth or jaw discomfort.

Visit Your Dentist

If you experience persistent tooth pain or sensitivity during allergy season, don’t hesitate to schedule a check-up at our family dental practice. Our Chichester dentists will assess your oral health and provide specific recommendations tailored to your own needs – allergy or non-allergy related!

Whilst seasonal allergies and hay fever can be frustrating, with the right care and attention you can minimise their effects and enjoy a happy, healthy smile all year round. 

If you have any concerns about your oral health, click here or call 01243 771171 to contact our Chichester dental clinic and schedule an appointment.

As we grow older, many of us seek ways to maintain our youthful glow and feel confident in our skin, from anti-ageing creams, serums and facials to cosmetic and surgical procedures – the list is endless!  

One increasingly popular option for achieving this is through Botox treatments. But what exactly does Botox offer and how does it slow down the ageing process?… 

Understanding Botox

Botox, short for Botulinum Toxin, is a neurotoxic protein derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. While its origins may sound alarming, Botox has been widely used in medical and cosmetic applications for decades. In the realm of aesthetic procedures, Botox is primarily known for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by temporarily paralysing facial muscles.

How Does Botox Work?

The mechanism behind Botox’s wrinkle-reducing effect lies in its ability to block signals from the nerves to the muscles, preventing them from contracting. By inhibiting muscle contractions in specific areas of the face, Botox treatment smoothens out wrinkles and prevents new ones from forming. Common treatment areas include forehead lines, crow’s feet and frown lines between the eyebrows.

The Ageing Process and Botox

As time passes, our skin undergoes natural changes, gradually losing its firmness and elasticity due to the diminishing collagen levels. This process often manifests in the form of wrinkles and sagging skin. While Botox cannot reverse these age-related transformations entirely, it can address them, specifically dynamic wrinkles – those formed by repetitive muscle movements over time.

This anti-wrinkle treatment shines particularly bright in the early stages of ageing when fine lines and wrinkles are just beginning to make an appearance. By strategically targeting specific facial muscles, Botox has the remarkable ability to soften these early signs of ageing, restoring a smoother, more youthful appearance to the skin. Find out more about preventative Botox here.  

Benefits of Botox

Non-Surgical Solution

Unlike invasive procedures such as facelifts, Botox injections are minimally invasive and require no downtime. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules! 

Quick Results

Botox injections typically yield noticeable results within a few days to a week after treatment. Patients can enjoy smoother, rejuvenated skin without the need for lengthy recovery periods.

Bespoke Treatment

Botox treatments can be tailored to each individual’s unique needs and aesthetic goals. Our experienced practitioners can adjust the dosage and injection sites to achieve natural-looking results that enhance the patient’s features.

Long-Lasting Effects

While Botox isn’t permanent, its effects typically last for three to six months, depending on the individual’s metabolism and muscle activity. Regular maintenance treatments however will prolong the results and prevent the recurrence of wrinkles.

Managing Your Expectations 

It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of Botox treatment. While Botox can effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles, it may not completely eliminate them or address other signs of ageing such as skin laxity. 

At the Family Dental Clinic, our clinical practitioners will work closely with you to discuss your goals and expectations to ensure your satisfaction with the procedure. 

If you’re interested in undergoing Botox treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who has extensive experience and expertise in administering cosmetic injectables. At our family dental practice, all of our aesthetic practitioners are clinically trained and qualified for your peace of mind. 

To chat through your facial aesthetic requirements, click here or call 01243 771171 to schedule a consultation at our Chichester clinic.