It’s that time of year when there seems to be one illness after another going around. If you have finally succumbed to cold and flu season, you might be tempted to slack on your oral health. But it’s more important than ever to take care of your teeth when you are sick.
Here are some tips from a top dentist in Farmington, NM that should help you out:
Drink Plenty of Fluids
When you are sick, it’s especially important to stay hydrated. If you are vomiting, in particular, it’s easy to become dehydrated. Try to drink as many fluids as you can to help your body heal itself. Drinking plenty of water also keeps saliva flowing, which keeps your mouth moist and tooth decay in check.
Continue With Your Usual Oral Health Care Routine
Don’t skip brushing and flossing when you’re not feeling well; good home care is still your best defense against developing dental problems.
And when you are finally feeling like yourself again, toss your toothbrush and get a fresh one. A general rule of thumb with toothbrushes is to replace them every three months or so—or at least when the bristles start to fray.
Lay Off the Sugar
If you are laid up with a cold, you might want to comfort yourself with sweets, but sugar isn’t going to do your overall—or oral—health any favors. Watch out for hidden sugars in items such as cough medicine and cough drops.
Use a Mouthwash
Having a cold or the flu can leave your mouth feeling less than fresh. Rinsing once or twice a day with mouthwash can help kill germs that cause bad breath.
For more ideas on taking care of your oral health when you are sick, contact a top dentist in Farmington, NM. Lusk Family Dentistry is here to help. Call us today!