Asthma: How it Affects Oral Health

Spring is in the air.  For those of us living in Kern County, that means pollen counts are up, air quality is poor, and many of us will suffer with allergies and asthma.  In fact, asthma continues to be on the rise.  More than 22 million adults suffer from asthma, and of those 22 million, 6 million are children. Consequently, May has been designated as Asthma Awareness Month.

Recent evidence suggest that oral infections (this includes decay, gingivitis, heavy plaque, and abscesses) in the mouth can contribute to lower respiratory conditions, such as asthma.  This happens when bacteria found in the mouth mixes in with saliva and is then inhaled into the lungs.  The more plaque build-up on the teeth there is, the higher the levels of bacteria there are in the mouth that can relocate into the lungs just by breathing.  

Other changes occur in our mouths from asthma and the associated medications that are taken to manage asthma. Many children suffering from asthma breathe through their mouths, which dries out the oral tissues.  Medications, especially the ß-2 agonists, also contribute to dry mouth.  Dry mouth, or xerostomia, contributes to gingivitis and increased tooth decay.  Frequent use of nebulized corticosteroids can also cause throat irritation, and sometimes candidiasis (yeast infection) will grow.  Increased use of ß2 agonists and Theophylline can contribute to gastroesophageal reflux (GER) which can erode enamel over time.

If you have a child who suffers from asthma, oral hygiene is especially important. For one thing, it will keep oral bacteria counts down.  Secondly, it will help to keep the gums healthy and teeth from becoming decayed.  Additional preventative measures include:

•    If child is old enough to spit, rinse with OTC (over-the-counter) fluoride mouthrinse at bedtime after tooth  brushing.
•    More frequent maintenance dental visits to prevent gum disease and cavities may be necessary.
•    Fluoride supplements, especially if using ß2 agonists (Albuterol, Ventolin, Serevent) inhalers are
      recommended, especially in areas where water is  not fluoridated, such as in Kern County.
•    Ask for oral medications that contain no or less sugar, if possible.
•    Rinse the mouth with water after using an inhaler to minimize the potential for candida growth. 

The best time to schedule an appointment with a dentist for a child with asthma is late morning or late afternoon to help reduce anxiety.  Make sure any needed medication has been taken prior to the appointment and update your dentist about any changes in medications. Bring your child’s inhaler with you to the dental appointment.  Inform you dentist of the most recent asthma attack and let the dentist know about any known factors that trigger an attack.  If the asthma symptoms are not well-controlled, consider rescheduling the appointment for a time when they are better controlled.

Diligent oral hygiene habits not only help to prevent cavities and gingivitis in your child’s mouth but can also help to minimize and control asthma symptoms as well. For more information about asthma go to:

www.epa.gov/asthma/awm/index.html
www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=10&sub=26&cont=457


Print:   Email: