As the weather changes, so do the most common oral health issues. The cold weather causes many people to experience problems like sensitive teeth, dry mouth, and chapped lips. As fun as the season can be, these issues can take away from your enjoyment and may even lead to other complications. To help you protect your mouth from harm in the colder months, follow these five tips on how to combat common winter mouth issues.
Tip #1: Wear Lip Balm
Cold temperatures can dry out the delicate skin on your lips and cause them to become chapped. Use a lip balm containing SPF to keep them moisturized and protect them from dry weather.
Tip #2: Use a Humidifier
Since there’s less humidity in the air during the winter months, this can cause our skin to dry out and become cracked and fragile. Consider using a humidifier to add extra moisture to the air in your home and keep your lips healthy.
Tip #3: Drink Plenty of Water
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when there’s an insufficient amount of saliva. This can be caused by medical treatments like radiation and chemotherapy as well as certain types of medications. Dry winter air can worsen this, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. This will also help keep your skin hydrated and prevent your lips from becoming chapped.
Tip #4: Use the Right Toothpaste
If you experience short, sharp pain in your teeth when drinking your favorite hot winter beverage, you may have sensitive teeth. When tooth enamel is broken down, the tissue beneath it called dentin exposed to foods and drinks, which can cause discomfort. Cold temperatures can also leave your teeth feeling uncomfortable. Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth to protect exposed dentinal tubules from harm.
Tip #5: Keep Warm
If you have TMJ disorder, bundling up can help minimize jaw pain since joints and muscles tense up in colder weather. Staying warm can help you reduce clenching or tightening in the jaw area.
While spending time with your family this season, remember to implement the above tips to prevent oral health issues from developing. Knowing how to protect your mouth in the colder months will reduce your likelihood of experiencing these common problems and allow you to enjoy the weather to the fullest.
About the Practice
Whether you need a checkup or want to completely redesign your smile, Dr. Amy Farrell, Dr. Krunal Patel, and their team at NeoSmile Dental Care aim to provide the care you and your family need. They offer a wide range of services for patients of all ages in their warm, inviting Spring House office. If you’re concerned about your oral health suffering during the cold months, they can also provide recommendations on how to keep your mouth healthy and happy. Visit their website or call them at (215) 643-5220 for more information on how to protect your mouth this winter.
