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Winter is approaching fast, and it brings with it drastic temperature changes which prioritizes one of our Top Oral Health Tips for When Winter Comes.
During this time, expect your oral health also to encounter problems.
These could range from sensitive teeth to cold sores.
But, you can still enjoy your favourite wintertime activities without having to experience these.
Below are several tips to keep your oral health in good condition during cold seasons:
Table of Contents
Stay Hydrated and Manage Sweet Intake
For every health problem, water is always the savior.
This is why you have to exert a conscious effort to consume at least two litres of water for hydration every day.
But as the temperature drops, we often turn to coffee and tea.
And, now that Christmas is also coming, expect to be enticed by the sweet treats of the season.
Drinking more water is especially essential for your oral health this coming winter.
Water keeps our lips hydrated and fights off bacteria that may develop in our mouths.
Also, it helps us rinse off sugar from our favourite chocolates and candy bars.
Water is a neutral substance against acids like sugar, which damages the enamel.
In recent years, tooth decay has remained a prevalent problem across the globe.
In 2017, 35% of the Canadian population suffered from tooth decay.
Meanwhile, 2% had a severe tooth extraction.
Others experienced migraines and tension-type headaches due to tooth decay.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth twice a day is something we learned even before we went to school.
Using dental floss and mouthwash is a plus we can do.
But, it seems that we have not been taking this seriously.
In recent studies, only 37.6% of Canadians are brushing their teeth at least twice daily.
But, during winter, you are more likely to experience sensitive teeth.
So, you must change how you brush your teeth.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for a gentler brushing around your teeth and gums.
Consider changing toothpaste to one that’s more suitable for sensitive teeth.
Wash Your Hands
Your fear of the pandemic may have forced you to wash your hands more often.
As odd as it may sound, it is a blessing in disguise for your oral health.
Not only will it help keep germs at bay, but it will also prevent cold sores and winter flu.
So, it’s always best to keep your hands off your mouth area.
Cold sores are more common during freezing months.
And, the cold breeze outside can intensify the pain and weaken your immune system.
So, practice more frequent and thorough handwashing.
That way, you are safer from oral health problems and the CoViD-19.
Wear a Mouth guard and a Scarf
A mouth guard protects our teeth and gums.
It reduces the risk of dental injuries.
Also, it keeps you from forcing your teeth together while chattering from the cold.
Meanwhile, a scarf covers and provides warmth to your neck, lower jaw, and mouth.
Remember that the cold breeze can bring serious trouble to your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
Buy and Use Moisturizers
With moisturizers, you have an extra layer of protection against cold sores.
The harsh winter sunlight and the cold winds can cause cold sore breakouts.
The best way to protect the skin around your mouth is by using moisturizers.
It prevents the spread of bacteria between your hands and face.
Use them daily, particularly those with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Book an Appointment with Your Dentist
The most excellent way to take care of your oral health is to seek assistance from someone who knows teeth pretty well.
A dentist provides helpful tips to keep your teeth and mouth healthy during winter.
Also, they can detect and treat dental problems early.
This way, you won’t have to suffer and avoid higher fees when your complaints worsen.
In 2018, about 74% of Canadians visited a dentist, but over 20% avoided it due to dental costs.
The highest costs remain in Alberta, causing more to flock to British Columbia for dental help.
Meanwhile, Ontario remains cheaper amidst revenue decreases in dental clinics in 2020.
It is a good thing that there is a family-friendly Hamilton dental office Ontarians can visit.
You may get dental insurance if you are more prone to dental problems.
Sixty-four percent of Canadians have dental insurance.
People without dental insurance are thrice more likely to fail to see a dentist.
As such, it is nice to have yours to help cover dental expenses.
The Bottom Line
Winter is visually appealing but may bring trouble, especially to your oral health.
Going out and queuing up to visit a dental professional is quite a challenge now.
Hence, it is essential to do everything you can to protect yourself and your loved ones.
With good oral health, you will enjoy this freezing yet festive season.
Follow these tips to prepare your Children for visits to the Dentist.
