It’s wintertime, and that means hot drinks, seasonal treats, and cool, refreshing air. Even though taking in the crispness or winter weather can be pleasant, the colder months can do a lot of damage to your oral health. Read on to learn about common winter mouth issues and how you can combat them so you can enjoy the season to the fullest.
Tip #1: Stay Warm
When it’s cold outside, the muscles and joints in our bodies tend to tense up more than usual. One reason for this might be the drop in barometric pressure causing tendons, muscles, and the surrounding tissues to expand, which can cause pain. Those who have TMJ issues may also experience additional tightness or discomfort. Bundle up to stay warm and minimize jaw and joint pain.
Tip #2: Drink Lots of Water
Dry mouth occurs when your salivary glands aren’t producing enough saliva. Though many things can result in dry mouth, a few common causes include radiation, chemotherapy, and certain medications. The air is drier during the winter, which allows harmful oral bacteria to thrive and attack your tooth enamel. Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep your mouth well hydrated and prevent damage.
Tip #3: Wear Lip Balm
During the weather months, the delicate skin on your lips may dry out and crack due to a drop in humidity. To keep this from happening, wear lip balm that contains SPF. This will make sure that your lips stay well moisturized and will protect them from the sun and dry weather.
Tip #4: Use a Humidifier
Since the air is less humid during the winter months, this causes our skin to dry out and be more fragile than it usually is. Use a humidifier to add moisture back into the air in your home or office. This will help keep your skin and lips healthy and soft.
Tip #5: Pick the Right Toothpaste
Dentin, the middle layer of the tooth, is covered in nerve fibers that are sensitive to the cold. For that reason, cold temperatures can make your teeth feel uncomfortable. If you experience short, sharp bursts of pain when you drink hot or cold foods and beverages, use desensitizing toothpaste to protect your teeth and alleviate discomfort. It can take a little while for the effects to kick in, so be patient and avoid foods and drinks that cause discomfort until the sensitivity has lessened.
Enjoy your winter to the fullest by following the above tips. This will help you maintain good oral health and keep your smile as lovely as can be!
About the Practice
The Bloom Center for Esthetic Dentistry offers the residents of Holliston the best dentistry they could ask for. If you’re suffering from winter mouth issues, their knowledgeable team can offer tips on how to protect your oral health from harm during the colder months. To schedule an appointment with The Bloom Center for Esthetic Dentistry or for more information on how to combat common winter mouth issues, call their office at (508) 429-5300 or visit their website.