Winter Tips For A Healthy Mouth: Dealing With Common Winter Mouth Woes

January 9, 2023. 3 min read

A family of five in cold weather clothes walking in the snow

When it's cold outside, exposed skin isn't the only part of your body that can be affected by a drier climate; colder temperatures can also affect your oral health. While snuggling up this season, remember to take special care of your teeth. This will help prevent common oral issues, like tooth sensitivity and dry mouth that often worsen during the cold, dry weather. Try these dental care tips for a healthier mouth this winter.

Moisturize Your Lips

Cold winter temperatures can affect the delicate skin on your lips, drying them out and causing chapped lips. Using a daily lip balm that contains SPF can protect them from the dry weather. Drinking water is a great way to keep your skin hydrated, with the added benefit of alleviating dry mouth symptoms. Because there is less humidity in the air during this chilly period, installing a humidifier in your home can add extra moisture.

Drink Water

Xerostomia (dry mouth) is an oral condition marked by insufficient saliva in the mouth. This can be caused by certain types of medication and medical treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. Dry winter air may worsen this, so be sure to say hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

Do you experience a short, sharp pain in your teeth when trying to enjoy your favorite winter hot beverage? Broken down tooth enamel leaves dentin, the tissue beneath it, exposed. When this part of the tooth comes in contact with hot, cold, or acidic foods and drinks, it can cause discomfort. Cold temperatures, air, and wind can leave your teeth feeling uncomfortable too. Include toothpaste for sensitive teeth in your oral hygiene routine; they contain ingredients that protect exposed dentinal tubules.

Keep Warm

Cozying up with a blanket or putting on a jacket when stepping out into the winter cold are things you're probably doing already. But for people with TMJ disorder, staying warm can help minimize jaw pain. It is normal for joints and muscles to tense up when experiencing colder weather. Ensure you are keeping toasty with a scarf or sweater to reduce clenching or tightening the jaw area.

While enjoying being with your family, watching winter sports, or keeping warm by the fire this winter, remember to take good care of your oral health too. Keep moisturized and hydrated, as this will prevent chapped lips and alleviate dry mouth. Use desensitizing toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth. Knowing how to maintain your oral health during colder weather will reduce the likelihood of experiencing common mouth issues, leaving you with the chance to cozy up and have a good time.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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