Asthma & Cavities — Is There a Connection?

Asthma is the most chronic disease in children and affects nearly 24 million Americans, of which about 6 million are under 18. Asthma is a serious medical condition that, if not treated proactively, can lead to trouble breathing, wheezing, and sometimes, even death. But at our Long Island pediatric dental office, we also know it may have a negative effect on kids’ oral health.

What Research Says About Asthma and Oral Health

There’s been a long-standing belief that those with asthma have an increased risk for oral health problems, including cavities. Since many asthma sufferers tend to also be mouth breathers, the chance for dry mouth is greater. Dry mouth is a concern for many pediatric dentists. When saliva production decreases, its ability to properly rinse away germs and bacteria diminishes, and the likelihood of developing cavities goes up. Even if mouth breathing isn’t a factor, common asthma medications can also dry out the mouth and decrease saliva flow.

However, recent studies suggest that perhaps there may not be a link between asthma and oral health concerns. Research conducted by the Indiana University School of Dentistry argues that while many children with asthma also have cavities, there are also many who do not. After compiling years of data, the head research doctor concluded that while there’s been a long history of supporting the belief that asthma sufferers are at increased risk for decay and cavities, there may too many variables to concretely conclude a correlation.

What Can You Do?

Whether the connection between asthma and cavities is true or not, there are some simple things you can do for your child to ward off any negative side effects of asthma or asthma treatments.

• Drink Water. And lots of it. Water helps stimulate saliva flow and keeps the mouth hydrated. The more moist the mouth, the more effective it is at keeping damaging decay-causing bacteria away.
• Rinse with Water. After using an asthma treatment like an inhaler, have your child rinse his mouth out with water. Any drying ingredients in the medication won’t have the chance to linger in the mouth.
• Tell Your Long Island Pediatric Dentist. Your child’s dentist should know if he has asthma, as well as any medication he uses to control it so the dental team can be aware of any potential negative side effects.

As always, the best way to prevent cavities is to encourage your child to brush twice a day, floss once a day, and see their pediatric dentist regularly. We’re always accepting new patients at our Long Island pediatric dental office, so if it’s time for your little one’s checkup, give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Accepting patients from Long Island, Westbury, and all of Nassau County.

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

Read The Full Bio