Winter brings cozy sweaters and hot cocoa, but it also ushers in cold and flu season. While you’re focused on recovering from illness, your oral health might be the last thing on your mind. However, understanding how illness affects your teeth can help you avoid dental problems that outlast your cold or flu.
At Aer Dental Studio, Dr. Michael Martins wants you to know that protecting teeth when sick is just as important as taking care of the rest of your body. Let’s explore how being sick affects your oral health and what you can do about it.
How Does Being Sick Affect Your Oral Health?
You might wonder, “Does being sick affect your oral health?” The answer is a definite yes. When you’re fighting off a virus, several factors can compromise your dental health:
Dehydration and Dry Mouth
When you’re sick, staying hydrated becomes challenging. Fever, sweating, and reduced fluid intake lead to dehydration, which directly impacts saliva production. Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable—saliva acts as your mouth’s natural defense system, washing away bacteria and neutralizing acids. Without adequate saliva, your risk of cavities and bad breath when sick increases significantly.
Mouth Breathing and Sinus Pressure
Congestion forces many people into mouth breathing, which further dries out oral tissues. Sinus pressure can also create discomfort in your upper teeth, making you feel like you have a toothache when the problem is actually in your sinuses.
Vomiting and Acid Erosion
If you’re dealing with stomach flu or severe nausea, vomiting exposes your teeth to harsh stomach acid. This creates serious enamel damage if not handled properly. Many people ask, “Should I brush my teeth after throwing up?” The answer might surprise you—you should actually wait to brush after vomiting for at least 30 minutes. Brushing immediately can spread the acid around and cause more harm to already-softened enamel.
Dental Care During Cold and Flu: Best Practices
Taking care of oral health when sick requires some adjustments to your normal routine. Here’s how to take care of your teeth when you have the flu or a cold:
Rinse Instead of Rushing to Brush
After vomiting, use a saltwater rinse or a baking soda rinse to neutralize acids. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with water, swish thoroughly, and spit. After waiting 30 minutes, you can proceed with gentle brushing.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production and keeps your mouth moist. This is one of the most important steps for dental care during cold and flu season.
Choose Sugar-Free Options
When reaching for relief, opt for sugar-free lozenges instead of regular cough drops. Traditional cough drops and cough syrup contain significant amounts of sugar that feed harmful bacteria. If you must take liquid medicine, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Replace Your Toothbrush
Once you’re feeling better, replace your toothbrush to avoid reinfecting yourself and to ensure you’re using clean bristles for optimal oral hygiene.
Practice Gentle Brushing
Your gums may be more sensitive when you’re sick. Use gentle brushing techniques and don’t skip your routine, even when you’re not feeling your best.
When to Call Your Dentist
If you experience persistent tooth pain, significant enamel damage, or dental issues that developed during illness, don’t hesitate to contact Aer Dental Studio at (828) 665-7000. Our emergency dentistry services are available when you need immediate care, and our preventative dentistry approach helps keep your smile healthy year-round.
Remember, protecting your oral health when sick is an investment in your overall wellness. By following these simple steps, you can recover from your illness without compromising your beautiful smile.