ByLiving in Colorado brings unique challenges to your daily life. One of the biggest challenges in these high altitudes is the change in atmospheric pressure that leads to severe tooth pain and other dental problems. Low air pressure at elevations can cause tooth squeezing or barodontalgia, which can cause pain and discomfort in your teeth.
If you experience persisting tooth pain, a dentist at Suncreek Dental can help you determine the underlying cause and suggest preventive tips to treat the problem. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn more about the relationship between altitude and tooth pain.
How Colorado altitude affects dry mouth
Colorado is known for its beautiful mountains and scenic views. However, this high altitude makes for very dry air. With an elevation of more than 5,000 feet above sea level, dry mouth conditions are very common for people living there.
In Colorado, you do not have to hike a mountain to experience dry mouth. The water vapors in the air are already low enough to make you suffer in different ways. Even a normal walk or doing everyday activities can lead to a dry mouth over time.
At higher altitudes, the air pressure is very low. This results in reduced oxygen supply and negatively impacts your body. Humans need oxygen to survive. Low air pressure and lack of water vapor can lead to dehydration. During this condition, your body becomes more sensitive to caffeine and alcohol.
Drinking water is highly advisable no matter where you reside. Stay hydrated and drink an adequate amount of water to counter such issues.
Why is your toothache worse in Colorado?
Your body is filled with air pockets that can sense the atmospheric change around you. At higher altitudes, when the air pressure abruptly changes, it can affect your body as well as your teeth.
The air is less dense at higher altitudes due to low atmospheric pressure. The change in air levels causes the air pockets in your teeth to expand, causing pain and discomfort. This condition is known as barodontalgia. It can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
How do you get air pockets in your teeth?
Air pockets in your teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Impacted teeth
- A defective dental procedure
- Periodontal pockets
- Pulp necrosis
- Mucous retention cysts
- Dental caries
If you have unhealthy teeth, tiny openings can begin to form in them, allowing air to enter and create pockets. The air can also become trapped in your tooth when you are undergoing a dental procedure.
How to prevent dental problems at higher altitudes?
Avoiding altitude-related dental problems involves maintaining good oral hygiene. Make sure to brush and floss your teeth daily to keep your teeth healthy and strong and reduce the chances of cavities and gum disease.
Additionally, as your teeth are more sensitive to sugary and acidic drinks at high altitudes, you must avoid them. At last, do not visit your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings.
What is the treatment for barodontalgia?
Your dentist may recommend several treatments if you have barodontalgia. In many cases, they might just ask you to wait until the pressure equalizes. Certain medications can help you manage discomfort and get temporary relief. Mouthguards can also help you protect your teeth from pain at higher altitudes.
However, if the problem persists, your dentist may need to do dental work to fund the underlying cause, such as a chipped or cracked tooth or cavity.
Visit a dentist today!
If you experience dental pain due to changes in altitude, schedule an appointment with a dentist in Colorado today to know the underlying cause.
