With the COVID-19 pandemic seemingly not slowing down in many places and cold and flu season about to arrive, it’s time to be wary of the dangers of colds. Flu and viruses to our oral health. Aside from just making us sick, colds and flu often harm teeth and gums, so it’s important to take extra care of them when we’re sick. Here are some ways oral health may be at risk during cold and flu season, and what you can do about it.
STOMACH ACID
As unpleasant as it is, when we get sick we sometimes vomit, which is very bad for our teeth. That’s because the acid from our stomach gets on our teeth, and can be very damaging. Thankfully most people brush their teeth when this happens, but it’s best to rinse with water first to wash away some of that acid. Acid can weaken our tooth enamel, making it soft and susceptible to damage from our toothbrush. If you find yourself sick, rinse first then brush, and get well soon!
NEGLECTING SELF CARE
When you’re sick, getting out of bed and functioning can be a challenge, but it’s important to make time to brush your teeth and floss, even when you’re feeling under the weather. This will help keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy, even when the rest of you isn’t. The last thing you need when you’re sick is cavities and gum disease!
COUGH SYRUP
When we’re sick, we often take medications to ease the symptoms. Some medicines like cough syrup aren’t just sticky to coat the throat, they’re full of sugar to taste better. All that sticky sugar may make the medicine go down, as the song goes, but it also coats the teeth and creates the perfect feeding ground for nasty cavity-causing bacteria. Don’t skip the cough syrup. Just be sure to brush or rinse with water after using it.
SKIPPING APPOINTMENTS
If your illness happens to occur when you’re supposed to have an appointment with Dr. Abelar, don’t worry. We can easily reschedule your appointment when you are feeling healthy. In fact, please do reschedule if you are sick. Just don’t cancel and put off your appointment longer than recommended, as any problems you may have may worsen at that time.
