Protect Your Teeth During Cold and Flu Season
January 13, 2020
When you’re sick, the last thing you want to worry about is your dental health; however, proper dental hygiene is especially important during this time. Here are four ways to keep up dental hygiene when you’re sick.
Practicing Good Hygiene
To help control the spreading of germs, it is important to cover your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough. Maintaining your regular brushing schedule will help keep the bacteria in your mouth at bay. While it may seem obvious, you should never share your toothbrush with anyone.
Opting for Sugar-Free
Cough drops, liquid medicine, and sports drinks contain lots of sugar. Sugar is a major cause of tooth decay, so the intake of sugary products should be limited. Since these items are go-to’s when sick, buy the sugar-free version instead.
Staying Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water when sick is not only great for your body, but it is also great for your dental health. Certain medications and breathing through your mouth due to a stuffy nose can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth can lead to an increased risk of cavities. To avoid dry mouth, make sure to drink lots of water and use sugar-free cough drops as necessary.
Rinsing and Spitting After Vomiting
Vomiting is an unfortunate symptom of the flu and other illnesses. It can be hard on the body and on the teeth. Your immediate reaction may be to reach for your toothbrush, but brushing your teeth right after will spread harmful acids around your mouth. Instead, make a mixture of 1 tsp of baking soda and water. Swish this around to rinse out your mouth and spit it out. Wait about 30 minutes to brush your teeth.
Going to the dentist while you are sick can be more uncomfortable than usual due to the increased sensitivity in the mouth, and it could put our staff at risk. If you are sick and have an appointment coming up, please call our office and reschedule.