While there are plenty of reasons to look forward to winter, it can be challenging to stay healthy during this season. Many of us will be taking extra precautions to protect ourselves from dry skin and the common cold until the weather warms up. However, don’t forget that your smile needs extra attention this time of year as well! Winter poses a variety of problems for your oral health, many of which you have experienced before. Read on to discover the five most common winter mouth issues and a few tips for how to best keep them at bay!
1.) Chapped Lips
Whether you’re skiing, sledding, or just walking around outside on a cold day, you’re likely to develop chapped lips. This painful and irritating condition is the result of exposing the delicate skin on your lips to a combination of wind, cold, and sun. The best way to prevent chapped lips is to wear a daily lip balm with at least SPF 15 and reapply it often. If you already have chapped lips, stay hydrated and keep applying lip balm to help them heal faster.
2.) Canker Sores
Do you find yourself eating spicy treats during the winter to stay warm? You may find yourself with canker sores. Mayo Clinic reports that spicy or acidic foods and beverages can increase your likelihood of developing these irritations. Limiting your intake of spicy candies, hot sauce, apple cider, and other acidic cold-weather favorites will help lower your risk of developing canker sores.
3.) Cold Sores
Studies suggest that exposure to dry air and cold temperatures can lead to cold sores. Many experts also link the increased number of bacteria and germs on your hands during winter (which are quickly transferred to your face) to a higher risk of developing cold sores. Make sure that you’re keeping your hands clean by washing or sanitizing them often and protecting your lips with SFP 15 lip balm.
4.) Tooth Sensitivity
That flash of discomfort you feel when biting into cold foods may seem ever-present during the winter months. You may even feel tooth sensitivity just by breathing in the cold air! Your mouth is used to being at a certain temperature, and when that temperature is lowered because of winter conditions, your teeth may be left feeling sensitive and sore. To manage this, make sure you’re using fluoridated dental products to keep your enamel strong and consider using a desensitizing toothpaste to help combat tooth sensitivity.
5.) Dry Mouth
There are many reasons why dry mouth is common in winter. Cold weather often causes nasal congestion, which will likely lead to you breathing through your mouth and drying it out. Winter is also cold and flu season, which typically comes with nasal congestion as well. Not only is dry mouth uncomfortable, but it can increase your risk of cavities! Make sure you stay hydrated, drink water often, and avoid caffeinated drinks to help prevent this issue.
Don’t let the colder weather take a bite out of your oral health! Use these simple tips to keep your smile happy and healthy all season long.
About the Practice
At University Dental Group, we strive to make achieving and maintaining optimal oral health for life simple and convenient. That’s just one of the reasons why we were awarded Best Dentist in Worcester in 2018 by WM Worcester Magazine! We provide a comprehensive menu of dental services for the entire family under one roof so you and your loved ones can get the personalized dental care you deserve. To learn more about caring for your smile during winter, we can be contacted online or at (508) 753-1911.