Asthma is considered a chronic respiratory condition that has been affecting millions of individuals throughout the world. This condition majorly has the worst impact on the lungs and airways. Someone with asthma issue can experience the symptoms of coughing, wheezing, heavy chest, and shortness of breath. Since asthma is primarily associated to impact the lungs, those with asthma have an increased risk of evolving oral health problems in the future. Hence, people with asthma are suspected to experience poor oral health, which may include issues such as dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Here’s a clear link between the conditions of asthma and oral health.
Asthma has a secondary impact on oral health. Chronic asthma or similar respiratory issues negatively affect the airways while making them narrow, inflamed, and difficult to breathe. This whole process further develops dry mouth, risk of tooth decay, and plague. Moreover, those who use inhalers for asthma, have the risk of developing fungal infections in the mouth and thrush. The inhalers have corticosteroids that inhibit saliva production in the mouth while leading to dry mouth, tooth decay, and bad breath. Also, the medications for asthma have steroids such as immunosuppressants involved. This further increases the chances of infection in the mouth.
Here are some best ways to maintain oral hygiene among asthma patients
- Control asthma symptoms
It is inviolable to manage asthma appropriately to maintain good oral health. For that, you should consume prescribed medications as suggested by your healthcare expert to manage the condition of asthma. Since poor asthma management has a direct impact on oral health, it can lower the risk with the right asthma care.
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine
You should never miss out on a regular oral hygiene routine which includes brushing and flossing on a regular basis. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush along with fluoride toothpaste to cleanse your teeth effectively. Ensure to use Antiseptic & Anti Plaque Mouth Wash to keep your mouth protected from germs. Do not avoid the gum line and corners of your teeth as they are prone to plaque and germ build-up.
- Rinse after using inhalers
Those who are active inhaler users should ensure to rinse their mouth after every use with the help of a water gargle or brushing. Usually, the inhalers contain corticosteroids, which trigger the risk of oral fungal infection and dry mouth. Using a rinse helps to get rid of leftover residue if there’s any in the mouth.
- Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water plays multiple roles in our daily lives including preventing dry mouth caused by asthma medications. Rinsing the mouth with water helps in keeping the mouth moist while encouraging saliva production. This further aids in cleaning the teeth and neutralizing acids in the mouth.
- Visit your dentist regularly
It is extremely important to visit for regular dental check-ups to ensure everything is alright. This is how you can detect early and treat any kind of oral health problems.
- Discuss asthma treatment with your dentist
Those with asthma should inform their dentist about the condition or consumption of any other medications. It enables the doctor to treat you accordingly on the basis of your current intake of prescribed medications. Moreover, your dentist might work along with the healthcare expert to make sure there is smoother coordination to avoid any kind of damage.
- Avoid triggers
It is highly beneficial to identify and lower any kind of exposure to the triggering elements that could worsen the symptoms of asthma or your oral care hygiene. Some of the common triggers can be smoking, certain foods, tobacco allergens, and other environmental pollutants.
To sum it up
You should always strive to maintain a holistic approach to ensure good health and well-being. No matter what it takes, it is essential to keep oral health at par, while dealing with asthma. The above oral health management tips can definitely add value to your general health and well-being.
