This Winter, Take Care Of Your Teeth And Gums.

Teeth and Gums: Winter is never far away, and it is easy to forget to care for our oral health during this time. We often neglect to remember the effects colder weather may have on our cheeks, lips, gums and teeth. Integrity Dental have a range of Health Tips For Winter including tooth decay treatment listed below to help you and your family.

Cold Sores & Dry Lips

Battling harsh winter winds and sun often causes break outs of cold sores and canker sores. Young adults and older adults are more likely to suffer from these conditions. This is due to reduced tear production, thinning of the skin and immune system problems. It is also common for lips to swell with dryness due to cold weather, which can make them feel sore when they are touched. Remember that these conditions cannot be cured quickly and should not be allowed to fester as they can lead to bacterial infection of the gums. To make sure your lips and mouth are protected ensure you use moisturisers and sunscreen

Wash hands regularly to prevent from passing on bacteria entering the mouth.

Treating yourself to acidic or spicy treats like cider, alcohol, fried foods or convenience meals can lead to canker sores, if you find you have these, try drinking a warm cup of water and a teaspoon of salt, this helps to clean away the infected area. Mouth washes are also a great way to ease the infection and pain and speed up the process of healing.

Always use lip balm to avoid chaffed and chapped lips and always keep them moist.

Strengthen Your Immune System:

Avoid time looking online for a dental expert near as Integrity Dental recommends taking vitamin c tablets as they are great as a substitute in helping the body produce collagen for healthy gums. This also helps keep your blood vessels healthy, building and strengthen your immune system.

Tooth brushing techniques are so important as too is making sure your toothbrush is in good condition. You should throw your old toothbrush away every 3-4 months. Be sure to replace your toothbrush after you have been sick as bacteria may remain on it and cause early gum recession.

It is important to visit Integrity Dental at least twice a year for a check-up and cleaning. Your dentist can also advise you on how to improve oral health in the colder months, as well as provide tips on how to avoid infections and problems.

These tips can help keep you healthy and brushing your teeth regularly will ensure your smile remains healthy too.

Importance of Hydration:

During winter, coffee, tea and hot chocolate often become a comfort beverage and a winter warmer on colder days. Rarely do we have the urge to drink multiple litres of water like we usually do in summer months. Tooth decay treatment begins when we consume sugary foods and often, we forget about sugary drinks. However, staying hydrated is vital to rinse off any sugars and acids that may stick to your teeth, (from hot drinks) hydrating lips assist to maintain moisture in our mouths and assists in keeping unwanted bacteria from developing. Any dental expert near you will offer this advice, especially when drinking beverages that contain acids or sugars.

Combat Sensitivity:

Sensitive teeth can become a struggle and an inconvenience in winter months. Cold temperatures and cold winds leave you often feeling sore, and you can generally experience sharp pains from tooth sensitivity. Tooth decay treatment can become a battle in your daily life. A visit to Integrity Dental is recommended for sensitive teeth, a dentist will recommend you use mouthwash or toothpaste that contains a mild anaesthetic which can numb painful areas of your mouth.

Tooth brushing techniques then need to be discussed and used in conjunction with a good sensory toothpaste that will assist in easing the symptoms hot or cold food and drinks can cause so you can enjoy things like icy beverages or hot chocolates still during the winter months.

A mild and effective toothpaste that can be used for sensitive teeth and gum problems is also a good option for sensitive teeth. A toothpaste that contains fluoride as well as natural ingredients that are good for oral hygiene can assist in sensitive teeth and gums. This is an all-purpose toothpaste, so you can use it for everyday care of your teeth and gums. It should contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives added to it.

To conclude:

Following these Healthy Tips For Winter will assist in keeping your oral health in staying in the best possible condition during the cooler months. Always remember to book a 6 month check up with a dentist to ensure you keep on top of tooth decay treatment and ensure your tooth brushing techniques are still going well. Health Tips For winter have been designed to assist patients with basic tips and we suggest if you are unsure, you seek advice and assistance from Integrity Dental for further consultation and advice.