Maintaining oral hygiene is important year-round, but the winter season can bring additional risks to oral health. Colder weather, holiday meals, and treats can impact the health of your teeth–especially for those who have already had dental work done. As the winter season approaches, there are simple steps you can take to ensure you are maintaining oral hygiene and protecting your teeth.
Dr. James A. Penney and his trusted team have cared for teeth in Central Arkansas for 20 years. As an experienced endodontist, saving teeth is Dr. Penney’s specialty! If you have concerns or are experiencing tooth pain this season, call our office at 501-227-ROOT (7668) at any time to see how we can help. If you want to learn more about how you can maintain good oral hygiene this season, keep reading for our tips on taking care of your teeth this winter!
Tips for Protecting Teeth in Colder Weather
The cooler outside temperatures and dry, heated indoor air can cause dryness for our mouths. Winter winds can also pose a risk for our lips, leading to dryness and cracks. A dry mouth can cause increased risk for tooth decay, gum disease, infection, and bad breath. So, staying hydrated and keeping our mouths protected is important in the winter. Here are some of our oral hygiene tips to help in colder weather:
- Drink plenty of water
- Consider using a humidifier indoors
- Use quality lip balm
- Cover your mouth with a scarf to keep warm and limit winter weather exposure
- If you’re experiencing dry mouth, only use sugar-free gum or gum with xylitol to boost saliva production
- Throw out your toothbrush after any seasonal illnesses
Tips for Protecting Teeth When Enjoying Holiday Treats
In addition to colder, dryer weather, the winter brings holiday meals and treats that you may choose to indulge in. The sweets many of us look forward to during the holiday season can impact our enamel, especially if we get out of our routines and oral hygiene practices. Here are some of our tips to help protect our teeth and gums over the holidays:
- Be mindful of sugary sweets and acidic beverage consumption
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss daily
- Limit hot beverages
- Call your dental provider if you experience pain or sensitivity
We know the holiday season can be busy and routines can be harder to stick to, but if you’re experiencing any tooth pain, don’t wait to see a provider. Dr. Penney’s office has 24/7 answering service, so even in the busy season, we’re here to help. Call our team at 501-227-ROOT (7668) to schedule a check-up or address any concerns you might have about your teeth.