As cold season strikes, it is important to strike back. Even though illnesses often tend to make doing anything difficult, it is important to find ways to muster the strength to continue to care for your body as needed. This includes staying hydrated and battling any oral health risks that you may have. If you are not careful, you could find yourself at an increased vulnerability to dental damage
It is important to make sure that any tools you use while you are sick are sanitized. To prevent further contamination from arising, always remember to never share your toothbrushes and never allow anyone else to use your toothbrush. This goes for all other cleaning tools as well. Be sure to continue to clean your mouth if you have a cold or the flu by brushing and flossing each day. However, be aware that if you do find yourself throwing up, your teeth will be at an increased risk for dental abrasion. To prevent further damage to your tooth enamel, use nonabrasive tools after throwing up, such as water flossers or mouthwash.
Always remain hydrated and avoid foods and medications that can lead to dry mouth symptoms. Dry mouth is a condition in which your mouth has a decrease in saliva. This can be detrimental to your oral health Saliva is important for washing away debris and neutralizing harmful acids in your mouth.
Exercise caution with any cough drops or other similar products you may eat as they are known to cause chips and cracks if you bite into them incorrectly. Your teeth may be extra-sensitive and brittle when you are sick, so never try to chomp down on hard lozenges. Also, stick to sugar-free products to avoid further risks for dental erosion.
Restore your smile with oral health care during cold and flu season. To set up a visit with Who Does Your Teeth at our dentist office in Henrico, Virginia, please contact us at 804-447-1435. Dr. Jeffrey Neal and our wonderful team will get you back to smiling once more!