When cold and flu season hits, most of us focus on getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and recovering as quickly as possible. But have you considered how being sick affects your oral health? Illness can take a surprising toll on your teeth and gums, and understanding how to take care of your teeth when you have the flu can help you avoid additional dental problems down the road.
How Illness Affects Your Teeth
When you’re battling a cold or flu, several factors can compromise your oral health. Dehydration from fever and reduced fluid intake decreases saliva production, which is your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria. This dry mouth creates an ideal environment for harmful bacteria to multiply, potentially leading to cavities and bad breath when sick.
Mouth breathing, common when you’re congested, further dries out your mouth and can irritate your gums. You might also experience sinus pressure that creates discomfort in your upper teeth, making you wonder if you have a dental issue when it’s actually related to your sinuses.
The Hidden Dangers of Common Cold Remedies
Many over-the-counter remedies can actually harm your teeth. Cough drops and lozenges often contain high amounts of sugar that coat your teeth and feed cavity-causing bacteria. Opt for sugar-free lozenges whenever possible. Similarly, cough syrup and other liquid medicines frequently contain sugar and acids that can lead to acid erosion and enamel damage if you’re taking them multiple times throughout the day and night.
Dental Care During Cold and Flu: Best Practices
Maintaining good oral health when sick requires some adjustments to your normal routine:
Continue Brushing and Flossing
Even when you feel terrible, gentle brushing twice daily and flossing remain essential. Be thorough but gentle, especially if your gums are sensitive or inflamed.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps combat dry mouth and supports saliva production. Keeping a water bottle nearby encourages frequent sips throughout the day.
Use Antimicrobial Rinses
A saltwater rinse or a baking soda rinse can help neutralize acids in your mouth and reduce bacteria. Mix half a teaspoon of salt or baking soda in warm water and swish gently several times daily.
Should I Brush My Teeth After Throwing Up?
If you’re dealing with vomiting, protecting teeth when sick becomes even more critical. Stomach acid is extremely harsh on tooth enamel. However, you should wait to brush after vomiting—at least 30 minutes. Brushing immediately can actually spread the acid around and cause more enamel damage since the acid temporarily softens your enamel.
Instead, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or a baking soda rinse to neutralize the acid. After waiting at least 30 minutes, you can brush gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
When to Call Your Dentist
Most cold and flu-related oral health issues resolve once you recover. However, if you experience persistent tooth pain that doesn’t seem related to sinus pressure, or if you notice damage from acid erosion or vomiting, contact our team at Tampa Palms Dentistry. Dr. Georges Raffoul, DMD, can assess any damage and recommend appropriate treatment.
For urgent dental concerns during illness, our emergency dental service is available to help address immediate needs.
After Recovery: Replace Your Toothbrush
Once you’ve recovered, replace your toothbrush to avoid reinfecting yourself with lingering germs. This simple step helps ensure you start fresh with optimal oral hygiene.
Taking care of your teeth during illness doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding how illness affects your teeth and following these simple strategies, you can protect your smile while your body fights off infection. If you have questions about dental care during cold and flu season, call Tampa Palms Dentistry at 813-333-1922. We’re here to help you maintain excellent oral health year-round.
