Cold and flu season always has a way of sneaking up on us, right? Shorter days and colder temperatures mean more time inside—where germs tend to spread.
Of course, no one likes to be sick. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to support your immune system for less sickness and faster recovery. A healthy mouth is key to keeping the sniffles away.
Try these helpful ways to stop the spread of germs and keep your whole family feeling healthy this winter.
Keeping up your oral health is important all year round, sick season is a great time to double down on your dental routine. Regular brushing and flossing keep harmful bacteria from building up in your mouth and causing infection or sickness. Be sure to brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste in the morning and before you go to bed. Also, floss once daily to remove food particles, plaque, and germs that build up between your teeth.
Read more: The Toothbrush, Mouthwash & Floss Dentists Love
Fueling your body with junk food won’t help it fight sickness. Limit foods high in sugar, alcohol, and processed foods, which can tax your body’s natural defenses against disease. Instead, reach for immune-boosting foods like low-fat yogurt, spinach, broccoli, and other fruits and vegetables. Not only are these healthy choices great at supporting your immune system, but they’re also good for your teeth. The essential vitamins and minerals, like calcium, found in whole foods are important for healthy teeth and bones.
Stay hydrated.
It’s hard to escape sick season without a stuffy nose or two. But, having a cold can also impact your teeth. That’s because people suffering from the sniffles often breathe through their mouths. Mouth-breathing, and some nasal decongestants, can cause dry mouth, or reduced saliva. That’s a problem for your mouth, especially if it lasts a long time, since saliva keeps your teeth and gums healthy by washing away bacteria.
Drinking extra water when you’re sick can help you avoid dry mouth. Sugar-free hard candy also stimulates saliva production and helps keep your mouth feeling hydrated. If you notice symptoms of dry mouth even after you recover, ask your doctor about other ways to address it.
As gross as it sounds, many sicknesses spread through infected saliva. To protect your body from illness, you have to protect your mouth. That means you shouldn’t share drinks with other people. Often, contagious bacteria can spread before a person even shows symptoms of being sick. So, don’t assume it’s safe to share cups or straws with someone who feels well.
If you do get sick, be courteous and do your best to stop the spread of germs. One of the best ways to do that is to distance yourself from others when you feel ill. If you must go out, be sure to cover your mouth any time you cough or sneeze. This simple habit goes a long way toward keeping others healthy and reducing their risk of getting infected.
Beware of sugary ‘health’ foods.
Reaching for sports drinks and cough drops might seem like a good idea when you’re sick, but make sure you read the labels first. Many popular electrolyte drinks, immunity gummies, throat lozenges, and even cold medicines are chock-full of sugar. Not only can that sugar harm your teeth, but it also puts a strain on your immune system.
Look for sugar-free brands and try natural hydration options, like coconut water and water, which are better for your teeth. For children who are too young for the tablet form of medications, be sure to offer sips of water after using cough and cold syrups to wash away the sugary syrup.
Most dentists recommend replacing your manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to four months. When you’re sick, however, it’s a good idea to go ahead and switch it out even sooner. Cleaning an infected toothbrush is possible, but most people find it easier just to get a new one. It’s a good idea to grab a few extra toothbrushes during the sick season to have on hand in case you need them.
Whether it’s cold and flu season or the middle of summer, one of the best choices you can make for your health is scheduling a dental hygiene appointment. Give us a call or visit our website to book your visit. We can’t wait to see you soon!
If you found this article useful, don’t forget to visit our blog, The Smile Daily, for more dental tips, patient stories, and the latest happenings here at Norge Dental Center.
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