Two Main Ways Allergies Cause Dry Mouth

Can Allergies Cause Dry Mouth?

Yes, allergies can cause dry mouth. This happens in two primary ways:

1. Nasal Congestion and Mouth Breathing: When suffering from allergies, nasal congestion is common. This blockage forces individuals to breathe through their mouths. Mouth breathing dries out the mouth and throat because it bypasses the nasal passages which normally humidify the air. This is mentioned in multiple sources, such as Delta Dental, Wyndly, and Sun Lakes Dentistry.

2. Antihistamine Side Effects: Many over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, commonly used to treat allergy symptoms, can have dry mouth as a side effect. These medications reduce saliva production, leading to dryness. This is confirmed by Sun Lakes Dentistry, SmartMouth, and Mayo Clinic.

Furthermore, the inflammatory response triggered by allergens can also contribute to dryness in some cases, as noted by Lubricity Innovations.

While dry mouth from allergies is often temporary, it can lead to discomfort and potentially increase the risk of oral health problems like cavities and gum disease. Delta Dental highlights this increased risk.