After a long hot summer, our lovely Brisbane winter days are finally here!
It’s time to dig out the comfy slippers and fluffy blankets for those chilly evenings. Unfortunately, the drop in temperatures also marks the beginning of cold and flu season.
WHEN COLD AND FLU SEASON STRIKES your teeth are probably the last thing you’re thinking about as you reach for another tissue!
Here’s 7 practical dental tips for this cold and flu season:
- Dry mouth is often an issue when sick – mouth-breathing and certain cold & flu medications are all culprits. As well as causing bad breath, dry mouth increases the risk of decay! Combat dry mouth by sipping water constantly through the day and stimulate saliva with sugar-free chewing gum.
- Wash your hands before AND after brushing or flossing, to avoid spreading germs.
- Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after use, and store upright, which allows water to drain and the bristles to air-dry. This will reduce the number of bacteria.
- Change your toothbrush or brushhead regularly! Every 2-3 months is best, or sooner if the bristles appear worn or splayed. Changing after a cold or flu will help eliminate bacteria.
- Brush two to three times daily. Even if you haven’t eaten much, bacteria in your mouth can still flourish
- Choose sugar-free lozenges, cough syrups & electrolyte drinks whenever possible. Full-sugar versions, especially lozenges, leave plenty of sugar in the mouth for bacteria to feast on, and multiply.
- Sinus pressure can often feel like toothache, especially around the upper molars. If a dullish aches starts while you have sinus congestion, wait until you feel better and see if the tooth pain disappears. If not, then definitely contact us for an appointment.
Winter colds are common and everyone has a busy schedule these days, so many patients still need to attend dental appointments while sick. We don’t mind at all; our sterilization and infection control protocol ensures a healthy and clean environment at Sherwood Dental. We’ll do everything we can to make you comfortable. If you absolutely cannot make an appointment due to illness, we ask that you give us as much notice as possible. Two full days’ notice is preferred.
Please stay well this winter, and remember to take care of your smile, too!