Coughing, sniffling, sneezing, and sore throats are all regular occurrences in the winter, especially if you have children who are in school! During the winter months, when cold and flu season are in full swing, maintaining good dental hygiene habits and curbing the threat of cavities can be difficult. Read on for five oral health tips to keep your smile on the right track if you’re sick with a cold, the flu, or Covid.
Stay Hydrated
Your saliva acts as a natural defense system against harmful oral bacteria, helping rinse them away and preventing plaque and debris accumulation that leads to decay. However, when you’re sick, your mouth may not produce as much saliva, and you may even begin breathing through your mouth more if you have a stuffy nose. This can lead to dry mouth, which is bacteria’s best friend! Continue helping your body get rid of harmful oral bacteria by staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water, broth, and tea. This can also help you feel better!
Get Sugar-Free Cough & Sore Throat Lozenges
Sugar attracts cavity-causing bacteria, which is why it’s best for your smile if you opt for sugar-free cough drops and sore throat lozenges. Other medications, like cough syrups, as well as electrolyte drinks, also often include sugar; however, there are plenty of products that contain artificial sweeteners or no sweeteners at all, helping your smile avoid accumulating bacteria.
Try Swishing with Salt Water
Salt water can help relieve some discomfort caused by a sore throat as well as reduce the amount of oral bacteria. Create a saltwater rinse by putting ½ teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swishing it for about 10 seconds. Spit the rinse out and repeat this process several times throughout the day.
Don’t Forget to Brush & Floss
In the middle of having a cold, the flu, or Covid, the last thing on your mind is likely plaque build-up. However, if you put off brushing and flossing, even for just a few days until you get better, the plaque layering your teeth could harden into tartar, making it too hard for you to remove at home. This will put you at a greater risk of developing common oral health issues like gum disease and cavities.
Get a New Toothbrush Afterward
Finally, after you get over your illness, you’ll want to invest in a new toothbrush. Using your old one could transfer the germs that got you sick in the first place back into your mouth, causing you to get reinfected and have to go through all of that again!
About the Author
Dr. Sikander Singh is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Upon graduating, he completed a General Practice Residency program at the York Hospital and received hands-on, advanced training in a variety of dental treatments. He is a passionate and knowledgeable dentist who is dedicated to offering first-class, personalized care to each of his patients. For questions or to schedule an appointment, visit Aesthetic Dental Arts’ website or call 717-755-4143.
