Leaves are changing color, temperatures are dropping, and days are getting shorter. Do you know what that means? We’ve officially made it to the winter season! Many people look forward to this cold time of year, excited to bundle up and play in the snow. However, you shouldn’t forget to prioritize your oral health during this time. Cooler temperatures can lead to winter mouth issues like tooth sensitivity and chapped lips. Below, you’ll learn a few helpful tips to combat those problems and maintain a healthier mouth!
Moisturize Your Lips
Exposed skin isn’t the only part of your body that can be affected by a colder climate. These temperatures can also impact the delicate skin on your lips, causing them to dry out and become chapped. Luckily, there are steps you can take to protect them from the cool weather.
Using a daily SPF lip balm and drinking plenty of water are two excellent ways to keep your skin hydrated. You can also install a humidifier in your home to add extra moisture. This is incredibly important because there’s usually less humidity in the air during the cold winter season.
Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is an oral condition characterized by insufficient saliva in the mouth. Typically, it’s caused by certain types of medications and medical treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. On top of that, the dry winter air can worsen your symptoms. To keep your mouth safe, you should drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Brush with Fluoride Toothpaste
If you’ve ever experienced a sharp pain in your teeth when trying to enjoy your hot chocolate, you may have dental sensitivity. This is usually the result of worn-down tooth enamel. It leaves the dentin (underlying tissue) exposed, causing discomfort when it comes into contact with food and drinks at extreme temperatures. As you can imagine, cold air can also leave your teeth feeling uncomfortable. For relief, you can use toothpaste for sensitive teeth as they contain ingredients that protect exposed dentinal tubules.
Keep Yourself Warm
This winter season, you’re probably already planning on bundling up with a blanket or cozy jacket. However, it’s incredibly important for people with TMJ disorder to stay warm during this time of year. It can help minimize jaw pain. When you’re cold, it’s normal for the joints and muscles to tense up. Keeping yourself warm will reduce the temptation to clench or tighten the jaw area.
By knowing how to protect your oral health during the colder season, you can lower your risk of common winter mouth issues. With these tips, you can keep your smile safe and have a good time!
About the Practice
Our team at Westgate Dental Care will always prioritize your care and safety. We also value patient education to ensure you make the best decisions for your oral health. For more winter oral health tips, visit our website or call (847) 908-3684.