When cold and flu season hits, most of us focus on rest, hydration, and getting better as quickly as possible. But have you thought about how illness affects your teeth? Being sick can take a surprising toll on your oral health, and understanding dental care during cold and flu can help you avoid additional problems once you’re feeling better.
How Being Sick Impacts Your Mouth
Does being sick affect your oral health? Absolutely. When you’re battling a cold or flu, several factors can compromise your teeth and gums. Dry mouth is one of the biggest culprits—whether from mouth breathing due to congestion, dehydration, or certain medications, reduced saliva production means less natural protection for your teeth. Saliva helps neutralize acids and wash away bacteria, so when it’s in short supply, your risk for cavities and bad breath when sick increases.
Vomiting presents another serious concern. Stomach acid is extremely harsh and can cause acid erosion and enamel damage if proper care isn’t taken afterward. Even sinus pressure can cause tooth discomfort, as inflamed sinuses can press on the roots of your upper teeth.
Common Remedies That May Harm Your Teeth
Many medications we rely on can actually affect oral health when sick. Cough drops, while soothing for your throat, are often loaded with sugar that coats your teeth. Cough syrup and liquid medicine tend to be sticky and acidic, clinging to tooth enamel and creating an environment where bacteria thrive. Whenever possible, opt for sugar-free lozenges and rinse your mouth with water after taking any medication.
Protecting Teeth When Sick: Best Practices
How to take care of your teeth when you have the flu doesn’t require anything complicated—just some mindful adjustments to your routine:
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is crucial. Not only does it help you recover, but it also combats dry mouth by encouraging saliva production. Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you’re experiencing a fever or taking medications that dry out your mouth.
Wait to Brush After Vomiting
Should I brush my teeth after throwing up? This is a common question, and the answer might surprise you: wait at least 30 minutes. When you vomit, stomach acid softens your enamel temporarily. Brushing immediately can actually scrub that acid deeper into your teeth, causing more enamel damage. Instead, rinse your mouth with a baking soda rinse (one teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water) or a saltwater rinse to neutralize the acid. Then, wait to brush after vomiting to give your enamel time to reharden.
Practice Gentle Brushing
When you’re ill, your gums may be more sensitive. Focus on gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and don’t skip your regular routine, even if you’re not feeling your best.
Replace Your Toothbrush
Once you’re on the mend, be sure to replace your toothbrush to avoid reintroducing germs back into your system. A fresh brush helps ensure you’re starting with a clean slate.
When to Contact Your Dentist
If you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain that doesn’t seem related to sinus pressure, or if you’ve been vomiting frequently and are concerned about acid erosion, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Dr. Haidy Messih and the team at Loudoun Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help with any concerns about protecting teeth when sick. Whether you need a routine checkup or have a more urgent issue, we offer comprehensive dental services and emergency dental care to address your needs.
Remember, taking care of your oral health doesn’t stop just because you’re under the weather. With a few simple precautions, you can protect your smile while you recover. Feel free to call us at 703-858-9067 if you have any questions about dental care during cold and flu season.
