If the roof of your mouth has been itching, you are not alone. Though it may seem like a small issue, it can arise from severe underlying causes that should be looked at. Allergies are one of the most common causes of an itchy roof of the mouth. Things like certain foods, pollen, or pet dander can trigger it. Kirtland experiences season changes a lot, making allergies worse.
Seasonal allergies can cause inflammation and itching in the mouth as your body reacts to things in the air. Another cause might be oral thrush, a yeast infection in the mouth. This not only causes itching but can become a bigger problem if not treated. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, could be another reason your mouth itches. Medications or health problems often cause it.
Although there are home remedies that can treat this issue, it can be difficult to uncover the cause of the issue at home. If your itch does not go away even after trying home remedies, it is best to speak to a dentist in Kirtland, OH. They can help figure out what is causing it and give advice for treatment.
Common causes of an itchy roof of the mouth
An itchy roof of the mouth can be annoying, and sometimes it can mean that there is a serious underlying cause. Here are some of the common causes of an itchy roof of the mouth:
Allergies
Allergies are a big reason for an itchy mouth. There are different types of allergies that can cause this, including seasonal, food, and oral allergy syndrome (OAS). Seasonal allergies, also called hay fever, occur when there’s pollen, dust, or mold in the air.
Some people get an itchy mouth after eating certain foods like nuts, shellfish, dairy, or specific fruits. If you notice this happening after eating, it might be a food allergy. OAS happens if you are allergic to pollen and eat certain raw fruits or vegetables. For example, if you are allergic to birch pollen, eating apples or carrots might make your mouth itchy.
Infections
Infections can also cause an itchy roof of the mouth, such as fungal, viral, and bacterial. A common fungal infection is oral thrush, where the fungus Candida grows excessively in the mouth. It can cause white patches and itching.
The flu or a cold can also irritate your mouth and throat, making them feel itchy. Sinus infections can lead to postnasal drip, where mucus runs down the back of your throat. This can irritate the roof of your mouth and make it feel itchy.
Irritants (food, tobacco, etc.)
What you eat determines the state of your mouth. Spicy or sour foods, like citrus fruits or hot peppers, can irritate the soft tissues in your mouth. These foods can overstimulate the nerves and make your mouth feel itchy. Usually, the feeling goes away after a while. But if you eat these foods often, it might make the problem worse.
Tobacco and alcohol can also cause itchiness. Smoking can irritate your mouth because of the heat and chemicals in tobacco. Drinking too much alcohol can dry out your mouth, making it uncomfortable and itchy.
Dry mouth, a condition where your mouth does not make enough saliva is another reason for an itchy palate. It can happen due to reasons like dehydration, taking certain medicines, or having medical conditions like diabetes.
Insect bites or stings
Though it is rare for an insect to bite you inside the mouth, they can make the roof of your mouth itchy. If a bug bites near your palate, it can cause itching, swelling, or irritation.
Experiencing an itchy roof of the mouth in Kirtland?
If your mouth keeps feeling itchy and the feeling does not go away, it is crucial to know the underlying cause. Schedule a dental consultation today!
