The Effect Of Viral Infections On Oral Health

Some of the most common symptoms of viral infections include fever, chills, cough, headache, and muscle pain. They can also cause loss of appetite, gastrointestinal problems, and nasal congestion. In addition to these, viral infections can cause oral symptoms as well. If you develop any of the following oral symptoms, visit a dental clinic so that a dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums. 

Profuse Gum Bleeding

It is not unusual to experience bleeding gums during your oral care routine or during dental procedures. If, however, your gums bleed profusely or if the bleeding doesn't stop, see an emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Profuse gum bleeding may be indicative of thrombocytopenia, which refers to a decreased blood platelet count. It is often caused by a viral infection, and in addition to bleeding gums, it can cause unusual bruising, blood in the urine or stool, nosebleeds, and small purple dots on the skin. In addition to thrombocytopenia, viral infections can also lead to anemia, which may also cause heavy bleeding from the gums. Once the viral infection has been cleared, thrombocytopenia and anemia will resolve; however, it may take weeks before your gums stop bleeding.

Oral Dryness

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, can be another oral effect of a viral infection because certain viruses can cause salivary gland dysfunction. In addition to this, viral infections can cause fevers and dehydration, which can also cause oral dryness.

Salivary gland problems usually resolve once the infection goes away, however, your dry mouth may persist for a while longer. If your viral infection causes a fever, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and dry mouth.

Oral dryness can raise your risk for gum disease and cavities because when your mouth is dry, bacteria can multiply inside your mouth. Water will help clear away the germs that cause gingivitis and dental decay. If increasing your fluid intake doesn't help alleviate dry mouth, your dentist may recommend an oral product to help restore moisture. Sugarless can help stimulate the flow of saliva, however, if you are sensitive to artificial sweeteners, you may experience bloating and abdominal cramps if you chew too much sugar-free gum. 

If you are getting over a viral infection and develop bleeding gums or dry mouth, make an appointment with your dental clinic. If your dentist is concerned about your bleeding gums, he or she will refer you back to your physician, who may order a complete blood count to rule out anemia and to evaluate your platelet count.