Cold and flu season is approaching which means it's time to pay extra attention to your dental care. When you're sick, it makes it harder to keep up with your daily dental routines, but it's important to stay on top of it. Here are dental tips for cold and flu season.
- Brush Your Teeth As Usual
Brushing your teeth and flossing are essential when you're sick. When you're sucking on cough drops the sugar sticks to your teeth making it even more important to brush your teeth. Doing so will make you feel better and reduce your risk of oral health problems.
- Drink Lots of Water
Drinking lots of water helps your body fight off infection. Dry mouth is common when you're sick with a cold or the flu since you probably won't be able to breathe through your nose. Drinking water puts saliva in your mouth which can help prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Replace Your Toothbrush
Once you are no longer sick, toss out the sick toothbrush and replace it. There's no need to be reinfected by your own toothbrush.
- Gargle Salt Water
Gargling salt water is said to have the same medicinal effects as antibiotics for strep throat. This is because it helps to cut down on harmful bacterias. Doing so will also improve your breath and reduce plaque.