Did you know that the changes in the season here in Springfield can impact your oral health? With winter rapidly moving in, the holiday season is also approaching. Here are some oral health tips and tricks to be aware of to protect your smile as winter and the holidays descend upon us.
The Seasonal Impact of Winter on Your Dental Health
Some of the factors that winter brings, and you should be aware of, are:
- Sensitive Teeth — The colder air may cause increased tooth sensitivity.
- Dry Mouth — Illnesses and indoor heating systems may contribute to dry mouth, which increases your risk of developing tooth decay.
- Less Vitamin D — When you can't be outside in the sunlight as much, you may lack sufficient vitamin D, which contributes to tooth health.
Seasonal Changes to Your Diet
The holidays are infamous for their rich foods and decadent treats, which we don't typically eat. When you intake more sugary treats, it increases your risk of developing problems like tooth decay and cavities.
How to Protect Your Smile and Oral Health from Seasonal Changes
The good news is that once you're aware of the potential problems winter can bring, you can be proactive about offsetting some of the concerns. Here are some helpful tips:
- Stay Hydrated — Drink plenty of water throughout the winter season to avoid dry mouth and wash away debris from holiday treats.
- Manage Seasonal Allergies — Use a humidifier or allergy medication to help reduce the dry mouth caused by seasonal allergies.
- Limit Sugar Intake — Try to limit your intake of sweets and sugars and enjoy your holiday treats in moderation.
- Focus on Oral Hygiene — Stick to your daily home care routine of brushing twice and flossing once.
- Schedule Routine Checkups — Don't forget to schedule with your dentist when it's time for your next teeth cleaning and checkup.
Contact Your Springfield Dentist
Give Ruggless Dental a call at (217) 787-0212 if it's time for your next dental appointment or if you have questions about your dental health.