Taking care of your health comes first when you have the flu or a cold. This involves oral hygiene too.
Everyone around you is beginning to cough and sniffle once more since it is that time of year. We recognize that while you're ill, your dental hygiene may not be your first priority, but the flu or a cold can harm your mouth. Keep in mind that your health should come first while you are sick. You can lower your risk of getting sick by vaccinating against the flu, frequently cleaning your hands, and avoiding sick people.
Consult a doctor as soon as possible if you have cold or flu symptoms that don't go away after a few days. You can get treatment for the majority of flu or cold symptoms in your neighbourhood clinic, so visiting the doctor doesn't have to be expensive.
Taking care of your mouth throughout the flu and cold season
When you have the flu or a cold, follow this advices to keep your mouth healthy:
Maintain good hygiene
When you cough or sneeze while unwell, remember to protect your mouth. Maintaining proper toothbrush and dental hygiene is also crucial. Once you've recovered from the illness, think about getting a new toothbrush. Since the flu virus can stay on a toothbrush for up to 72 hours, switching up your toothbrush can help you avoid getting sick again. When you're sick, you might not feel like doing much, but don't let suffering and weariness stop you from brushing and flossing twice a day.
Select sugar-free cough and cold remedies
Cough drops relieve persistent coughs and dry mouth, which can lead to cavities. By reading the label, you can avoid liquid cold remedies and cough syrups containing fructose or corn syrup. Cavities may result from these sugars, especially if you keep them in your mouth for an extended period of time. Select sugar-free lozenges and pills for your prescription instead. If you give children aged 4 and older liquid cold medication with sugar added, ensure they clean their teeth soon away if you give it right before bedtime or a nap.
Drink the appropriate fluids to hydrate
Everyone has heard that staying hydrated is the best way to treat a cold. Just be sure to select the best ones. The best option is water, which keeps you hydrated and flushes cavity-causing acids from your mouth. Sports drinks without sugar can help you feel more energized. If you drink water after low-sugar juice to rinse the sugars from your teeth, you can consume it in moderation.
Lessen side effects
An unfavourable side effect of the flu might be vomiting. You become dehydrated as a result, and stomach acids might also coat your teeth. Wait around 30 minutes before brushing, despite the urge. Brushing right away might damage the enamel that has been weakened by acid. It is preferable to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water, diluted mouthwash, or baking soda numerous times. Stomach acid can be neutralized using baking soda.
A dry mouth is a side effect of nasal congestion, which can be made worse by over-the-counter medicines like decongestants and antihistamines that are used to treat stuffy noses. Use a humidifier or vaporizer to provide moisture to the air. Use a saline nasal spray as well, if necessary. Drink lots of fluids and eat sugar-free hard candy to promote saliva and keep your mouth and throat moist.
Consult with your dentist
A toothache may come from a sinus infection. Additionally, having a dry mouth for a prolonged period of time increases your risk of developing cavities and gum inflammation. If you have a persistent dry mouth or toothache along with the flu or a cold, make an appointment with your dentist right away.
What you can do to prepare for the cold and flu season
It might be challenging to make the best choices for your health when you're feeling congested in the head. You'll be far more likely to act appropriately in the event of illness if you have the necessary supplies on hand and have planned properly.
In order to get ready for the upcoming cold and flu season, remember to:
Stock up on cough syrups, lozenges, and other medications without sugar.
Keep a supply of extra toothbrushes in the cabinet.
Keep a variety of herbal teas on hand.
Keep some baking soda in the bathroom cabinet.
Keep toothbrushes apart from one another at all times.
Conclusion
Winter is here, which frequently means dealing with potential health problems. This time of year, can be challenging because of the prevalence of colds, flus, and winter problems. It's crucial to keep in mind that your teeth may also be compromised. Due to their great sensitivity, teeth can become damaged when exposed to excessively cold temperatures.
When you're unwell, caring for your teeth may be the last thing on your mind, but it's just as crucial as any other self-care routine you could have. Following these easy instructions may help safeguard your teeth and gums during flu season and maintain a happy, healthy mouth throughout your recovery.
