The Importance Of Caring For Teeth When You’re Sick

We don’t know about you, but we are looking forward to the arrival of spring. One of the biggest issues with the winter is the resurgence of annoying seasonal illnesses. If you or a loved one should happen to fall ill, there are certain precautions you need to take with your teeth and gums to ensure your oral health doesn’t suffer.

Stick to Your Oral Hygiene Routine
We know that you may not feel like brushing your teeth when you are feeling under the weather. It is important that you clean your teeth if you are drinking sugary beverages, like ginger ale or sports drinks, or vomiting. Lingering bacteria and acid on the teeth can cause tooth decay and other issues, such as gum disease.

Replace Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush needs to be replaced after an illness, even after a common cold. Harmful bacteria can linger on the brush, increasing your risk of reinfection. This not only protects you but your family as well.

Drink Extra Water
Many medications can cause dry mouth, which is caused by a sharp decrease in saliva. We recommend drinking plenty of water to help hydrate the entire body and promote saliva production. Dry mouth can increase the risk of decay and gum disease.

Choose Sugar-Free
You might be surprised by the amount of sugar in soft drinks and sports drinks, two very popular options when you aren’t feeling well. If you are choosing one of these options, we encourage you to opt for a zero-sugar option. There are also sugar-free cough drops and syrups available. When you are continuously drinking or sucking on a cough drop, the lingering sugar can cause serious damage to your teeth.

We kindly ask that you reschedule your appointment if you are feeling under the weather. If you are feeling healthy and are concerned about the state of your oral health, or it has been quite a while since your last visit, we encourage you to call our office, which is located in Jacksonville Beach, FL, to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon, and stay well!