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dental pain, dental problems, knoxville dentist

Tooth Pain From Allergies

This time of year we seem to see more and more patients with a toothache or some other sudden dental problem. Many of these patients  have never had a dental filling or crown. Their teeth are straight and they see their dentist every 6 months for a cleaning. In spite of their seemingly healthy mouth, these patients still come to our office for relief of a sudden toothache. So what is causing these mysterious dental problems?

Knoxville is known for its poor air quality. It is hard to live in Knoxville and not be affected by allergies this time of year. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has named Knoxville the #1 worst place for people with allergies to live.

The biggest trigger for allergies is pollen. Tree pollen is usually worst in March, April and early May. Grass pollen is highest in April, May and June. When this pollen is inhaled, the body’s immune system goes into overdrive. Allergies usually bring itchy and watery eyes, itchy ears and nose, sneezing, congestion, and sinus pressure.

Everyone in Knoxville understands allergies but you may not understand how allergies relate to your teeth. The maxillary sinus cavities are below your eyes and above your teeth. They are the ones most likely to be affected by congestion and pressure during allergy season. These sinuses are directly above the root of your upper teeth. If pressure and congestion builds up in the sinuses, it may put pressure on the roots of Your upper teeth. This buildup of pressure can cause tooth pain or other dental problems.

If living in Knoxville has got your allergies running wild try to limit going outside on high pollen days. Also, you can try taking an allergy medication like an antihistamine. Antihistamines and decongestants can start to provide relief in as little as one hour. For more severe allergies you many want to try a nasal spray.

If you’ve been going to the dentist regularly and have never had dental problems before, a sinus infection may be the source of your dental pain. For those who are no stranger to the dental drill you may want to call up your favorite Knoxville dentist and schedule an appointment. Quickly diagnosing a small cavity will allow your dentist to treat you with a conservative dental treatment such as a filling. Leaving dental pain unchecked may result in a more costly root canal or crown.

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