Oral healthcare is a year-round priority. With changing seasons and weather comes the need for your teeth to adapt to different changes.
The cold weather also brings in a craving for hot, sweetened chocolate drinks that can affect your dental health. As the temperature drops, your teeth’s sensitivity might also increase as nerve endings get exposed to the cold air. Fluctuating heat levels may also cause your teeth to crack and intensify the effects of gum recession. The frigid, biting air may even dry your lips and cheeks, causing them to bleed and blister.
It’s also the season for celebration, banquets, and candies! Cases of teeth plaque and tooth decay often increase during the holidays as people get too busy or consume more food.
Here are some Ways to Prep Your Teeth for Colder Weather and the Holiday Season
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated can do wonders for your oral health. Your saliva helps in coating your teeth in a protective layer, while flushing out any harmful bacteria.
Not drinking enough water can dry your mouth and encourage bacterial colonies to grow. Drinking water is also important because it contains minerals that can strengthen your teeth and help in enamel maintenance.
Avoid sugary drinks
From egg nog and wine to hot chocolate and tea, the cold weather can have everyone reaching for these tasty beverages.
However, they bring with them plenty of sugar and tannins that can stain your teeth and induce tooth decay. If you ever get the craving for them, be sure to brush your teeth after 30 minutes, or you may end up with plaque buildup and stained teeth.
Tooth scaling or whitening treatment can also help to remove stains from teeth.
Manage tooth sensitivity caused by weather changes
Tooth sensitivity is a year-round affair for many people. Some may even have their teeth become more sensitive after a filling or other dental treatment. This painful sensation can be magnified with sudden temperature drops.
Cold weather can affect your teeth’s nerve endings and crack your lips. As a preventative measure, use lip balm to shield your lips and visit your dentist for treatment of tooth sensitivity.
Avoid Candy
Eating too much candy can have adverse effects.
Sugar-loving bacteria around your teeth can cause severe tooth decay, but with proper brushing, healthy oral habits, and plenty of water, you can drive them away. It’s alright to indulge from time to time, but it’s best to limit intake.
Replace your toothbrush
Your toothbrush is your primary weapon against bacteria and plaque. It’s important to make sure your toothbrush is in good condition. If it’s worn and damaged, it should be replaced.
Frayed bristles in old toothbrushes can harbour some harmful bacterial colonies. Changing your toothbrush every 3 months can protect your teeth and gums from frayed bristles and bacteria.
Schedule a dental cleaning before the holiday rush
Don’t leave scheduling a dental appointment till the holidays! Dental clinics near you could be jammed during this time. To avoid getting wait-listed and delayed, it’s best to call early and arrange a schedule before the onset of holiday celebrations.
Consider chewing on Xylitol gum
Even though it tastes sweet, Xylitol gum has no sugar in it.
Xylitol is a naturally derived sweetener that neutralizes your mouth’s pH level.
In addition to giving you fresh breath, it also protects your teeth from bacterial growth.
To learn more or book an appointment, contact us today!