Cold and flu season is in full swing. If you find yourself with the case of the sniffles, you could unknowingly damage your smile while combating the symptoms. There are several home remedies that can be used to help you recover, but some may be harmful to your teeth and gums. Here are a few cold and flu season tips to protect your smile.
Decongestants
A runny nose can make your day miserable. A decongestant is a great way to dry things out. Unfortunately, things can get too dry. In fact, dry mouth is a common side effect of many decongestants. The reduction in your saliva creates the ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria that can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. You can help combat dry mouth and get the relief you need by staying hydrated. This will help cleanse bad bacteria from your mouth while also keeping it moist.
Cough Drops/Sore Throat Lozenges
Cough drops and throat lozenges can help treat a sore throat or pesky cough; however, many of them contain a lot of sugar. Since they dissolve slowly, it means they will need to be held in your mouth for several minutes. This gives the sugar plenty of time to settle on your teeth. It’s best to choose sugar-free cough drops and lozenges, but if they aren’t an option, be sure to regularly clean your teeth.
Liquid Cold Medicines
Many liquid cough syrups and cold medicines contain sugar. Not to mention, they are thick and sticky, which can coat your teeth. Over time, they can slowly erode your enamel, contributing to tooth decay. If the medication also contains alcohol, you may experience dry mouth as well. When you combine the sugar with the dry environment, it opens the door to a variety of oral health complications, like tooth decay. It’s best to choose medications in the pill or gel-cap form to remove the threat to your smile. If you must take a liquid form, rinse your mouth with water until you can brush your teeth.
Orange Juice
Orange juice is a great source for vitamin C and other nutrients essential to your immune system. It can help you fight an illness quicker, but it can also damage your smile because it’s acidic and contains sugar. You can reduce your risk of complications by drinking the cup of juice in one sitting instead of sipping on it throughout the day. Be sure to brush your teeth when you’ve finished.
Protect Your Smile while You Recover
Although you may not feel like doing much more than sleeping, it’s important to maintain your dental hygiene when dealing with a cold or flu. You will ensure you look and feel your best in no time at all.
About Dr. Joseph Sandberg
For over 30 years, Dr. Joseph Sandberg has provided comprehensive and comfortable dentistry to the community. Besides earning his dental degree, he has undergone additional training in many areas of dentistry including dental implants and bone grafting. If you’re ready to benefit from exceptional dental care, contact our office today for an appointment.