The dreaded common cold comes around to make us suffer every cold and flu season. Even though it’s called, “common,” it never is simple. Clogged sinuses, runny nose, and a sore throat. All of these symptoms will have you running to the store to find something to make you feel better.
It’s hard to believe, but that nasty cold can also affect your oral health. Your mouth has a very delicate system, and the virus combined with decongestants and antihistamines can throw it out of whack. Next time you have a cold, or even seasonal allergies, do your best to keep your teeth happy and healthy with the help of your cosmetic dentist in Bristol and Blountville.
Dry mouth
Breathing through your mouth is an unfortunate side effect of a stuffy nose. The problem is, this dries out your mouth. Combined with the drying side effects of antihistamines and decongestants, this could leave you with a case of dry mouth. Saliva fights tooth decay by washing away plaque-causing bacteria, and food particles, so stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. It neutralizes acid that can eat away at enamel and inhibits bacterial and fungal infections in the mouth.
What to do: Drink small sips of water often throughout the day rather than drinking a large glass all at once. Consider limiting alcohol, caffeine, and dry foods. Chew sugar-free gum or sugarless candy that contains xylitol as a sweetener. Consider using a tongue scraper to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Bad breath
When your nose is running, excess mucus leaks in the back of your mouth and throat. Add in the stuffy nose and breathing through your mouth and this excess mucus creates an environment suited to bacteria. The bacteria gives the discharge an odor and gives you bad breath.
What to do: Drink small sips of water throughout the day. Limit alcohol, caffeine, and dry foods. Chew sugar-free gum or use sugarless cough drops to encourage saliva production. Use a tongue scraper to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
Tooth pain
A stuffy nose can actually leave you with a toothache. The largest sinus cavity in your face sits right above your upper teeth. Stuffed sinus cavities fill with fluid and mucus and put pressure on the roots of your teeth.
What to do: Stay hydrated. Limit alcohol and caffeine. Use OTC medications like a decongestant as recommended by your doctor. Be sure to follow your regular oral hygiene routine to minimize tooth decay.
Call the office closest to you to schedule your appointment, either our Bristol location at (276) 466-2028 or our Blountville location at (423) 217-1338.
