When battling a cold or the flu, the last thing on your mind might be your oral health. However, being sick can have several effects on your mouth that you might not expect. From dry mouth to tooth pain, it’s important to understand how colds and the flu can impact your oral health and what you can do to protect yourself.
One of the most common issues during a cold or the flu is dry mouth. When you’re sick, you might breathe through your mouth more often due to nasal congestion, which can dry out your saliva. Saliva is important because it helps remove food particles and bacteria from your teeth. Without enough saliva, you’re more at risk for:
To combat dry mouth, make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Sucking on sugar-free lozenges can also help stimulate saliva production.
Over-the-counter cold and flu medications can provide relief from symptoms, but some of them may harm your teeth. Many cough syrups, lozenges, and throat sprays contain sugar, which can lead to tooth decay if not properly rinsed away. In addition, the acidity in some medications can erode your enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and potential cavities. To protect your teeth while using these medications:
If you’ve ever had a cold or the flu and noticed increased tooth pain, your sinuses might be to blame. The sinuses are located just above the roots of your upper teeth. When they become inflamed due to illness, the pressure can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from your teeth. This type of pain is usually temporary but can be alarming if you don’t realize the cause.
If tooth pain persists after your other symptoms have cleared up, it may be a sign of an underlying dental issue. In such cases, visiting our dental office in West Townsend for a thorough examination is important.
During this time of year, it’s common to experience nausea and vomiting, which can be tough on your teeth. Stomach acid is very strong, and when it comes into contact with your teeth, it can erode enamel and weaken your teeth, making them more susceptible to decay. To minimize the damage after vomiting:
While it can be challenging to focus on oral hygiene when you’re feeling under the weather, it’s crucial to maintain good habits. Here are some tips to protect your oral health while recovering from a cold or the flu:
If you’re dealing with persistent oral health issues during or after a cold or the flu, it might be time to visit our dental office in West Townsend. We can provide personalized advice and treatments to help you maintain a healthy smile.
Our dental office offers comprehensive care to keep your teeth and gums healthy year-round, even when under the weather. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your oral health is in top shape.
