WHEN the cold and flu season strikes, your teeth are probably the last thing you’re thinking about as you reach for another tissue! But there ARE some things related to that cold or flu that can affect your oral health. Be conscious of these three things:
Tip 1: Avoid dry mouth by staying hydrated
Dry mouth increases cavity risk. Most colds come with a giant side order of stuffy nose. We respond by breathing through our mouths! Doing so, combined with decreased saliva production during sleep, makes our mouths more vulnerable to harmful bacteria.
Tip 2: Keep the bad stuff off Your teeth
• Are you sucking on cough drops all day? Most are loaded with sugar. Opt for sugar-free cough drops if possible.
• Cough syrup is loaded with sugar too. If you take cough syrup, rinse your mouth out before going back to bed.
• Stomach acid is hard on teeth. Sorry to bring this up, but if you’re throwing up, keep your teeth rinsed and clean.
Tip 3: No matter how tired you are…
We know it’s tough when you’re sick, but don’t skip your normal brushing/flossing routine just because you’re feeling really tired. Your oral health is too important to neglect. (By the way, did you notice the kitty in the photo above? We think she’s smelling his breath because he hasn’t brushed in days.)
Stay healthy this flu season! Remember to sneeze into your elbow and wash your hands often to keep viruses from spreading.
If you’re sick, get feeling better soon! And thanks for your trust in our practice.
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If you have questions, pls call Dr. Valerie de Leon at (650) 697–9000 or visit our website at www.millbraesmiles.com. She is with Millbrae Smile Center located at 15 El Camino Real, Millbrae 94030. She is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of Laser Dentistry, ADA, CDA and SMCDS. Please call for a free consultation.
