3 Tips To Help You Protect Your Teeth During Cold And Flu Season
MAY 15, 2020
Right now, you may be enjoying the warm weather of late spring. Fall, winter, and their common illnesses may be one of the last things on your mind. But it will seem like no time at all before cold and flu season will be back in full force. Before that time comes, it would be beneficial for you to consider how you can protect your oral health when you are feeling under the weather. Here are some practical flu season tips to help you do just that.
Keep Brushing Your Teeth
When you are not feeling well, it can be all too easy to neglect parts of your everyday routine — including brushing your teeth. However, you should put forth the effort it takes to continue brushing twice a day. Skipping this part of your routine gives plaque and bacteria an opportunity to accumulate on your teeth and lead to damage.
After you recover from your illness, you probably will not need to replace your toothbrush because the chances of it re-infecting you are very slim. With that being said, however, you should get a new brush every three months or so, so it may be a good idea to bid farewell to your old brush anyway.
Use Sugar-free Medications
Cough drops, throat lozenges, and various medicinal syrups can do much to ease the symptoms of your cold or flu. However, many of these products contain a lot of sugar, which can easily damage your teeth. Try to opt for cold and flu medicines that are sugar-free or that have reduced amounts of the sweet stuff. If that is not possible, be sure to rinse your mouth with water after you take them.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water while you are sick helps to replace the moisture your body loses through sweating and loosening mucous. It can also help to protect your teeth. It prevents dry mouth, which is a significant risk factor for the development of dental decay. If you get tired of drinking plain water, it is okay to switch up the routine by enjoying other drinks in moderation. For example, low-sugar sports drinks can help to replenish electrolytes, while unsweetened tea offers a comforting way to warm yourself up.
Cold and flu season will be back in just a few months’ time. Bear the following tips in mind so you can keep your teeth as healthy as possible even when you are feeling less than your best. You should also feel free to ask your dentist for advice if you have questions. They will be happy to share their knowledge with you!
About the Author
Dr. Jared Jacobskind is a general and preventive dentist in Manchester. He is a graduate of Stony Brook University’s School of Dental Medicine. He is always pleased to help patients protect their oral health through personalized advice, thorough exams, and more. To learn more about Dr. Jacobskind or our practice, contact First Line Dental today at 860-327-5990.
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