As we welcome in winter, it?s time to ?tis the season of snowfall, cozy layers of clothing and time spent by the fire. Unfortunately, the drop in temperature can also welcome some unwanted tooth trouble. Not only does the dryness lead to chapped lips and dry skin, the low temperature can heighten tooth sensitivity, causing undesirable pain. Want to avoid the added dental doozies that can accompany winter months? Here are three tips on how to keep your teeth in tip-top shape this season.
- Gift Yourself With a New Toothpaste: During the winter, the cold can heighten sensitivity when we are exposed to cold temperatures and dryness constantly. To help combat added pain, treat yourself to a toothpaste with fluoride or one that fights sensitivity. These toothpastes will be a gift your teeth will be able to smile about.
- Breathe In (and Out) Through Your Nose: While it may sound like a small step, when we breathe out of our mouths outside during the winter months, are teeth are quickly exposed to the cold which can directly contact our teeth and quickly drop the temperature in our mouth, causing increased sensitivity. Keeping your teeth from experiencing a sudden drop in temperature by breathing through your nose can make quite the difference.
- Keep up the H2O: Staying hydrated during the winter months is important for many reasons, including caring for your teeth. Just because it is cold out, does not mean we need any less hydration. Drinking less water can lead to a dry mouth which influences bad breath, tooth decay, lower production of saliva and can even increase your risk for gum disease. Keeping your water intake high is not only helpful in keeping tooth enamel from weakening, the increased production of saliva helps to keep bacteria and food debris from settling in your teeth for the winter.
While shorter days, cold weather and holiday candy or leftovers can make it easy to ditch the normal routine and spend all day snacking on sweets or easily forgetting to brush and floss, it is incredibly important to not let the winter weather get in the way of your dental hygiene. Following the tips discussed along with making sure your regular tooth care routine stays in check, is the best way to keep your pearly whites warm, happy and bright! Need your 6-month check up or some extra tips on your dental care? We are only one phone call away from taking care of you. Call us now: 952-888-1311.
