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In winter, your teeth can experience some challenges that are not as noticeable in warmer months. The cold weather, combined with indoor heating, can leave your mouth feeling dry and your teeth more sensitive. But don’t worry – these issues are common and can be managed with a few simple changes to your routine. In this blog, we’ll explore how cold weather affects your dental health and offer tips to take care of your teeth.
Winter’s cold, dry air often leads to reduced humidity levels, which can dry out your mouth. Plus, indoor heating, while keeping you warm, can further dehydrate the air you breathe. The dry environment reduces the saliva in your mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids, fighting bacteria, and keeping your teeth protected. Less saliva can lead to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and discomfort.
Colder air can also trigger tooth sensitivity. If you have exposed tooth roots or worn enamel, the change in temperature may cause pain in your teeth when you breathe in cold air or consume hot or cold foods and drinks. Sensitive teeth react to temperature changes more easily, especially if the protective enamel is thinned or receded.
Dry, cracked lips are another common issue that can impact your overall oral comfort.
8 Ways to Beat Wintertime Dental Discomfort
Fortunately, there are things you can do to preserve your oral health and stay more comfortable:
- Stay Hydrated – Dry winter air can leave your body, and your mouth, dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent dry mouth. It also keeps your saliva flowing and supports overall oral health. Keep a water bottle handy, especially when you’re indoors in heated environments.
- Use a Humidifier – As the winter air becomes drier, consider using a humidifier in your home, especially in the bedroom while you sleep. This adds moisture to the air, to keep your mouth from drying out overnight. This can be especially helpful if you suffer from dry mouth or snoring, which can worsen when your mouth is too dry.
- Switch to a Gentle Toothpaste – If you experience tooth sensitivity in the winter, consider switching to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain ingredients that help block the pain signals from reaching the nerves of your teeth, providing relief from cold air or hot and cold foods. You can also try a fluoride rinse to strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity over time. Or ask your dentist about a fluoride treatment.
- Protect Your Lips – Cold, windy weather can wreak havoc on your lips, leading to dryness, cracks, and even sores. To prevent chapped lips, keep a lip balm with you at all times, and apply it frequently. Look for a lip balm with SPF protection, as the winter sun can still cause sunburn on your lips.
- Avoid Breathing Through Your Mouth – Breathing through your mouth can dry out your mouth quickly, especially during sleep. This can worsen dry mouth and contribute to bad breath. Try to breathe through your nose as much as possible. If you need to breathe through your mouth, consider using a moisturizing oral gel or mouthwash before bed to prevent dryness overnight.
- Watch the Temperature of Your Drinks – If you love a hot cup of coffee or tea in the winter, try not to drink it too hot, as this can worsen tooth sensitivity. Allow hot beverages to cool slightly before sipping. Avoid alternating between hot and cold drinks too quickly, as the temperature change can cause discomfort for sensitive teeth.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush – A soft-bristled toothbrush is gentler on your gums and enamel. This is especially important during winter when your teeth may be more sensitive. Brushing too hard with a hard-bristled toothbrush can aggravate tooth sensitivity. It also leads to gum recession, which exposes more of your sensitive tooth structure.
- Get Regular Dental Checkups – Wintertime is a great opportunity to schedule a checkup. Routine cleanings and exams can help identify any issues with enamel wear, gum recession, or tooth sensitivity before they become serious. If you notice any discomfort in your teeth or gums, it’s best to address it early with your dentist’s help.
Winter can be a tough season for your teeth, but with a few adjustments to your daily routine, you can avoid discomfort and keep your smile healthy. Staying hydrated, protecting your lips, using gentle oral care products, and managing the dry air in your home are all simple yet effective ways to combat dry mouth and tooth sensitivity during the colder months.
Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can offer personalized advice and treatments to keep you comfortable all winter long.
To make an appointment in Butte, MT, call Butte Family Dental at 406-565-4458. You can also schedule online.