The winter season is upon us, marking the beginning of this magical time of year. As the weather gets colder, your exposed skin isn’t the only part of your body you should be concerned about. Believe it or not, freezing temperatures can affect your oral health. Fortunately, taking special care of your mouth can help prevent common issues, such as sensitivity and dry mouth. Read on to learn a few helpful tips for dealing with winter mouth problems.
Moisturize Your Lips
Cold weather can affect the delicate skin on your lips, causing them to dry out and become chapped. To protect your lips, you should use a daily balm that contains SPF to protect them from the dry weather. Drinking plenty of weather is another excellent way to keep your skin hydrated while simultaneously alleviating dry mouth symptoms. If needed, you can install a humidifier in your home for extra moisture.
Stay Hydrated
Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth is an oral condition that’s characterized by insufficient saliva in the mouth. It can be caused by certain types of medication and medical treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. However, dry winter weather can also exacerbate those symptoms. You can prevent dry mouth issues by staying hydrated throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water is a great way to accomplish that.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
If you experience a sharp pain in your teeth when consuming foods or drinks at extreme temperatures, you may have dental sensitivity. This usually occurs when broken-down tooth enamel leaves the underlying tissue (dentin) exposed. When dentin comes into contact with hot, cold, or acidic foods, it can cause discomfort.
It’s worth noting that cold temperatures, air, and wind can also leave your teeth feeling uncomfortable. You should incorporate toothpaste for sensitive teeth in your oral hygiene routine to reduce sensitivity. They work by containing ingredients that protect exposed dentinal tubules, helping alleviate your discomfort.
Keep Yourself Warm
You may already bundle up with a warm coat or blanket before stepping out into the winter cold. However, it’s especially important for people with TMJ disorder to stay cozy as it can help minimize jaw pain. It’s common for joints and muscles to tense up when experiencing colder weather. By keeping yourself warm, you can reduce clenching or tightening of the jaw area.
Don’t forget to prioritize your oral health this season! With these tips in mind, you can easily manage some of the most common winter mouth issues.
About the Practice
Our team at Clinton Township Family Dental will always go above and beyond to ensure you receive the best dental care possible. Not only do we provide high-quality dental procedures, but we strive to understand your needs and goals. For more tips on dealing with common winter mouth issues, visit our website or call (586) 416-1444.