The link between asthma medication and your oral health

Close to three million Australians have asthma, meaning around 1 in 9 people are affected by this respiratory disease.[1] While we understand a lot about asthma triggers and treatment, the link between asthma and oral health is less well known. The team at Pacific Smiles Dental have put together this guide to help you look after your smile.

How Asthma and Asthma Medication Can Affect Your Teeth and Gums

Evidence suggests that using asthma medication may increase the risk of developing cavities. This can happen because of changes in the type and quantity of saliva produced. People with asthma are also more likely to breathe through their mouth, which can cause dryness (xerostomia) and further changes to saliva pH, reducing saliva’s natural ability to help protect against tooth decay.

Asthma is also considered a risk factor for other oral health issues, including:

• Periodontal (gum) disease, particularly gingivitis
• Candidiasis (oral thrush)
• Tooth erosion, which can contribute to tooth decay

This doesn’t mean poor oral health is inevitable for people with asthma. With the right knowledge and a proactive relationship with your Pacific Smiles dentist, many of these effects can be minimised.

I Have Asthma. What Do I Need to Know?

Successfully managing asthma starts with understanding your individual triggers and treatment plan. Maintaining adequate airflow will always be the priority, so speak with your doctor about your asthma management plan. Your Pacific Smiles dentist can then help guide you on minimising any impact of your medication on your teeth and gums.

Tips to Help Reduce Tooth Decay Risk With Asthma

• Rinse, don’t brush, straight after your inhaler. Rinse your mouth with plain water to remove residue rather than brushing immediately, as steroids may further affect already softened enamel. Ask your doctor about using a spacer with your inhaler[2] to help direct medication into your lungs rather than onto your teeth and gums.
• Be thorough with your brushing routine. Use fluoridated toothpaste at least twice a day and floss daily. A fluoride mouthwash may also help support enamel remineralisation.
• Watch your sugar intake. Limiting soft drinks, juice, and other sweetened drinks can help reduce decay risk from their sugar content.
• Manage dry mouth. A dry mouth gel or rinse may help if dry mouth is an issue. Chewing sugar free gum can support saliva flow, and staying hydrated with plain water throughout the day helps too.
• See your Pacific Smiles dentist regularly, generally every six months, or more often if recommended.

What to Tell Your Dentist at Your Appointment

• Let your dentist know if you or your child has asthma, and share details of your current medications. Bring your preventer and reliever inhalers with you.
• Bring an up to date copy of your asthma management plan[3].
• If cool morning air is a trigger for you, mention this to reception. A later appointment time may be more comfortable.

Book Your Next Check-Up

Regular dental visits are an important part of managing your oral health alongside asthma. Book an appointment with your Pacific Smiles dentist today.

[1] https://asthma.org.au/about-asthma/understanding-asthma/statistics  

[2] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1834-7819.2010.01226.x

[3] https://www.nationalasthma.org.au/health-professionals/asthma-action-plans