As winter sets in, the temperatures fall, and the common cold makes its yearly rounds, many of us will spend some time “under the weather.”
While managing the unpleasant effects of seasonal illnesses, like congestion and sore throats, it's easy to overlook their impact on oral health. Understanding how a simple cold affects your mouth and the steps you can take to maintain oral hygiene despite it can be key to keeping your smile healthy through cold and flu season.
Dry Mouth and Dehydration
Saliva plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, so without it, your risk for cavities, gum disease, and bad breath increases.
When you're sick with a cold, especially if you're frequently breathing through your mouth because of congestion or constant nose-blowing, your mouth can very quickly dry out. Unchecked, this can lead to dry mouth, a condition where your mouth lacks sufficient saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria.
To combat this, drink lots of water, use a humidifier at night, and periodically suck on sugar-free candies or lozenges to promote saliva production.
Increased Sugar Intake from Cough Syrups and Comfort Foods
Cold symptoms often lead to increased consumption of sugar, from hot tea with honey to comforting cookies and pastries to cough syrup. While helping in one sense, these can leave behind sugary residue on your teeth and contribute to plaque buildup and cavities. In these cases, whenever possible, try to choose sugar-free alternatives, or remember to brush and floss thoroughly after any sugary treat or remedy.
Maintain Consistent Oral Hygiene During Sickness
Maintaining your usual oral hygiene routine when you're under the weather can be difficult. However, it remains an essential part of your oral and overall well-being. Even when you’ve got a cold, remember to brush your teeth twice daily, floss daily, and use mouthwash to help prevent bacteria buildup. Also, try to avoid skipping dentist visits, as early detection of issues can prevent complications that might arise from neglecting your oral health during sickness.
Keeping You Smiling Throughout Cold Season in Brandon, FL
If you’re looking for a dentist in Brandon to help you maintain your commitment to optimal oral health throughout the holiday and cold/flu seasons, contact Dr. Sarah Barr and the caring and helpful Walker & Barr, DMD, team today to schedule an appointment!