Every season brings health risks with it and many of those health risks affect your teeth as well. Winter is no different but it’s also surprising to learn that lots of patients don’t know about the winter risks to your oral health!
This Is How You Can Protect Your Teeth In The Winter
#1 Eat dessert first
Avoiding sugary foods and beverages is easier said than done. So from now on, get into the habit of having sweets at the beginning of the meal. This will make sure they don’t stay stuck to your teeth long after you’ve eaten, thus preventing cavities.
#2 Visit a dentist
Sensitivity is the first sign that your teeth are weak. Hence, it is of utmost importance that you visit a dentist as soon as you feel the sharp pain or discomfort, so that preventive measures like dental sealant or fluoride treatment can be taken. Ignoring it could lead to more painful and expensive treatments.
#3 Keep warm
Teeth + Cold = Trouble
Cold temperatures can make you shiver. You tend to clench your jaw, or even grind your teeth during this time.
Did you know that cold air can actually cause them a lot of stress? The quick temperature changes that come with breathing through your mouth in the winter can cause your teeth to contract and when you close your mouth the warmth causes them to quickly expand.
#4 Brush and floss
If brushing your teeth after every meal is difficult, try brushing it at least twice a day. Once before you go to sleep and once after breakfast. Yes, after breakfast as you have already cleaned your mouth of sticky food at night. And don’t forget to floss.
#5
Drinking two to three litres of water a day is a must. Water ensures that your teeth and gums are moist. Saliva in your mouth tends to dry up in the winter, which increases the build-up of bacteria.
During winter, we tend not to drink enough water, as the weather doesn’t demand it. However, hydration is just as important now as it is in summer.
