Colder weather brings the flu season. While it is important to avoid the cold and the flu, do not forget about your dental health. In Abilene, Texas, the flu spreads quickly in crowded spaces. The flu affects not just your immune system but also your oral health. Common flu symptoms include fever, fatigue, and stuffy nose.
A fever can cause dehydration, leading to dry mouth conditions and increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Many people also turn to sugary snacks and drinks when they become ill, which can make dental issues worse. Some people also tend to skip their dental hygiene routine during their sick days.
Due to various reasons, it is important to keep your dental health in check during the flu season. Visiting a dental practice in Abilene will help you take care of your teeth and gums while staying healthy. Moreover, regular dental check-ups are a must, regardless of the season.
Stay hydrated to protect your teeth
Drinking a good amount of water is very important for your oral health. This is more true during the flu season. If you stay hydrated, your mouth maintains a good flow of saliva. This helps in washing away any leftover food particles and bacteria in your mouth.
These bacteria and debris can result in tooth decay and even gum disease. When there is less saliva production, your mouth can easily become dry, which can increase the risk of bad breath and tooth decay.
However, water can also work as saliva here. It helps neutralize harmful acids in your mouth and protects your tooth enamel from erosion. Therefore, if you are experiencing any flu symptoms, make sure you drink water regularly.
Choosing flu remedies wisely
When you are treating flu symptoms, it is very important to choose remedies that do not harm your teeth. You should know that many cough syrups and even throat sprays contain sugar, which can stick to your teeth and lead to cavities.
Whenever possible, look for low-sugar options. You also need to be cautious of remedies that have acidic ingredients like lemon or vinegar, which can make your tooth enamel weaker over time. Therefore, when you buy medicines, make sure you check their labels and choose products that are gentle on your teeth.
Teeth protection after vomiting
Vomiting is a common symptom of the flu and can also be harmful to your teeth. When you vomit, stomach acids come into contact with your teeth, which can weaken and erode your enamel.
After you vomit, it is very important not to brush your teeth immediately. During this time, your enamel is already soft, and brushing right after vomiting can damage it further. However, you can rinse your mouth with water or a baking soda solution to neutralize the acids in your mouth.
Make sure you wait for at least thirty minutes before brushing your teeth to allow the enamel to re-harden. This easy step will minimize the risk of enamel damage and keep your teeth healthy during the flu season.
Do not share oral hygiene tools
During flu season, it is very important to avoid sharing oral care tools like toothbrushes, floss, or tongue scrapers. The flu virus can spread through saliva. If you share your floss or toothbrush with others, it can increase the risk of spreading the virus.
It is also important to know that the flu can spread by sharing drinks or lip products, such as lip balm or lipstick. Each person should have their own set of tools to reduce the risk of infection.
Don’t let the flu affect your teeth!
While it is important to avoid going out during the flu season and take care of your immune system, do not neglect your oral health. Schedule a dental visit for a check-up today!