This is the season that brings with it a cold, wintery mix of sleet and snow to some parts of the world. Other parts may be a little sunnier. But one thing everyone has in common this season is that they are more susceptible to colds and the flu. If you are feeling a bit under the weather, you may not want to keep up with your good dental habits. However, you should because oral health is related to overall health. With that in mind, here are some tips from your Leawood, KS, dentist on what you can do to maintain your dental health.
Be Aware Of The Amount Of Sugar In Those Drops
If you have a sore throat or cough, you will probably want to suck on a throat lozenge or cough drop for relief. When you do, make sure you are selecting ones that do not include corn syrup or fructose as part of their ingredients. Why? Because one of the main causes of cavities is sugar, and keeping a drop in your mouth for an extended period of time increases the likelihood of bacteria feeding on that sugar. Bacteria turns its sugar waste into acids, which then eats away at the teeth, causing cavities.
Keep Practicing Those Good Hygiene Habits
Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze is a good, everyday habit that everyone should be doing. This is something you should be practicing, too, when you are sick so that you do not spread any germs around. Speaking of germs, your toothbrush should be fine to keep once you are feeling better. Make sure you clean it and let it air dry in an upright position after you use it. Replace it, though, if its bristles are broken or frayed. In fact, make a note to change it every three or four months.
Make Sure You Are Staying Hydrated
If you are taking antihistamines or decongestants, you may experience dry mouth. This could leave you at risk for cavities because there will not be any saliva to help wash away bacteria out of your mouth. Your Leawood, KS, dentist recommends drinking lots of water to prevent dry mouth. And if you are going to drink anything other than water, we suggest avoiding beverages that are high in sugar or have acidic ingredients in them. Another way to increase saliva in your mouth is to suck on throat lozenges or cough drops. Make sure they are sugarless!
Schedule An Appointment With Us
We are always here to help you maintain good dental health when you are sick and answer any questions or concerns you have. To learn more, schedule an appointment with us by calling Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS, today at 913-681-5500. We also serve patients who live in Overland Park and all surrounding communities.
