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Spring and summer in Southampton bring blooming flowers, beachside breezes—and for many residents, seasonal allergies. Sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and runny noses are common annoyances, but if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment, these symptoms might be doing more than just making you uncomfortable.
What many patients don’t realize is that seasonal allergies can directly impact your orthodontic progress. From changes in breathing to increased inflammation in the mouth, allergies can interfere with both comfort and results. Whether you wear braces or aligners, here’s what you should know about managing orthodontic care during allergy season.
The Allergy-Orthodontics Connection
At first glance, it might seem like allergies and orthodontics wouldn’t affect each other. But your body is more connected than you think—especially when it comes to your mouth, sinuses, and breathing.
Here are a few ways allergies can influence your orthodontic experience:
1. Mouth Breathing Due to Nasal Congestion
When your nose is stuffy, you’re more likely to breathe through your mouth. Over time, this can cause a number of issues, especially for growing children:
- Changes in jaw development
- Dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay
- Worsening bite alignment due to altered tongue posture
Mouth breathing also makes it harder to keep your mouth clean, which can affect progress if you’re wearing braces or aligners.
2. Dry Mouth and Increased Plaque Buildup
Seasonal allergies can dry out your mouth—whether from breathing patterns, antihistamines, or both. A dry mouth reduces saliva, which plays a critical role in:
- Neutralizing acids
- Washing away food particles
- Preventing plaque buildup
If you’re wearing braces, dry mouth can make it easier for food to get trapped around brackets, leading to cavities or decalcification. Aligners can trap that dryness in, too, especially if you’re wearing them for 20–22 hours a day.
3. Gum Inflammation and Discomfort
Allergies can increase inflammation throughout the body—including your gums. Inflamed or sensitive gums may feel more irritated during adjustments or while wearing aligners, leading to:
- Soreness or tenderness
- Increased bleeding during brushing/flossing
- Difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene
That inflammation can also interfere with how well your orthodontic appliances work, potentially delaying progress.
4. Sinus Pressure and Orthodontic Discomfort
Sinus congestion from allergies can sometimes create pressure around the upper jaw and teeth. If you’re already adjusting to braces or aligners, that extra discomfort can be frustrating. It might even feel like your appliance is causing pain, when the real culprit is sinus pressure.
Tips for Managing Allergies During Treatment
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to keep allergies from affecting your orthodontic progress:
- Stay Hydrated — Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth and support saliva production.
- Use a Saline Nasal Spray — Helps relieve congestion without the drying effects of antihistamines.
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene — Brush and floss thoroughly, especially around brackets and wires.
- Clean Your Aligners Regularly — Bacteria can build up quickly in dry conditions—keep aligners clean and dry when not in use.
- Consult Your Doctor About Medications — If antihistamines are drying out your mouth, there may be gentler alternatives.
And of course, if you’re experiencing pain or notice changes in your treatment progress during allergy season, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontic provider for guidance.
Seasonal Allergies Are Common—But They Don’t Have to Slow You Down
Living in a beautiful, nature-rich community like Southampton means seasonal allergies are just part of the package. But with a little planning and awareness, you can keep your smile on track while still enjoying everything the East End has to offer.
Staying consistent with your treatment plan and maintaining strong hygiene habits—especially during allergy season—can make a noticeable difference in both your comfort and results.
Need Help Navigating Treatment During Allergy Season?
Allergies shouldn’t get in the way of your smile. If you’re noticing discomfort, dryness, or other symptoms that seem to be affecting your braces or aligners, it’s worth discussing with a professional.
At Smile Orthodontics by Dr. Sarah, we understand how seasonal challenges in Southampton can impact your care. Our team is here to support you through every stage of treatment—rain, shine, or allergy season.
Reach out today to schedule a check-in or consultation, and let’s keep your smile moving forward, no matter the season.
