Bring Inhalers to Dental Visits

People with asthma are at greater risk for cavities, bad breath, and gum problems, according to a report in General Dentistry online (2/2/03). This is because they have a tendency to be mouth breathers, which when combined with asthma medications causes a low saliva flow. Without saliva?s cleansing effects, the risk for cavities and bad breath increases. Also, asthma inhalers may irritate the back roof of the mouth, causing a reddish lesion. This irritation may lead to infection that could spread to the throat and the rest of the mouth. It is important for people with asthma to rinse their mouth with water following inhaler use. People with asthma also should inform their dentist of their condition and bring their inhaler to dental visits in case they experience an asthma attack during dental procedures, the study authors concluded.