4 Oral Health Tips for Cold & Flu Season
As cold and flu season plays out, maintaining good oral health is essential to supporting your overall well-being. At Family Care Dental Clinic in North Vancouver, BC, we’re committed to helping you keep your smile healthy, even during sniffles and sneezes. Here are some simple tips and at-home remedies to protect your oral health this season.
① Maintain Your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
A solid oral hygiene routine is your best defense against illness. Consistency in brushing and flossing not only benefits your teeth and gums but also supports your immune system. Even if you’re under the weather, it’s important to stick with your routine.
Be sure to keep your toothbrush clean and check for any irritation, like blisters or bleeding. If you notice an open wound in your mouth, consider replacing your toothbrush promptly to reduce the risk of spreading bacteria.
② Care for Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush plays a critical role in illness prevention, especially during flu season. Since respiratory viruses can transfer to your toothbrush, taking extra steps to keep it clean is essential. Here are some simple tips:
Rinse with hot water: Run hot water over your toothbrush before and after each use to reduce germs.
Use antibacterial mouthwash: Soak your toothbrush in antibacterial mouthwash for added cleanliness.
Avoid boiling: Boiling your toothbrush can damage the handle, so stick to hot water and mouthwash instead.
Try denture cleanser: Using a denture cleanser is another effective way to sanitize your toothbrush.
Be sure to replace your toothbrush after recovering from illness to maintain ongoing oral health.
③ Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration helps prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to tooth decay and bad breath. Drinking water consistently promotes saliva production, which is your body’s natural defense against germs in the mouth. Saliva contains proteins and minerals that strengthen your enamel, helping to protect your teeth from bacteria.
④ Choose Sugar-Free Cough Drops
When you’re looking for relief from a sore throat or cough, opt for sugar-free cough drops or lozenges. Many traditional options contain sugar, which can promote tooth decay. Look for products with ingredients like xylitol, sorbitol, or mannitol, which help stimulate saliva production, protect against dry mouth, and are gentler on your teeth.
Closing
At Family Care Dental Clinic, we’re here to support your oral health through every season. We hope these tips help you stay healthy and smiling this winter. Remember, a healthy mouth contributes to your overall wellness. If you have questions or would like additional guidance, feel free to reach out to our caring team. Stay well and keep smiling!
Ensuring Your Safety
Following BC Provincial Health, the College of Dental Surgeons of BC, and BC Dental Association guidance, we've adopted new clinic standards to safeguard our patients and staff:
COVID-19 Pre-Screening : Before in-person appointments, we pre-screen all patients.
Personal Masks : During flu season, bring and wear your mask upon entering.
Hand Hygiene : Sanitizing stations and rigorous hand hygiene protocols are in place.
Enhanced Sanitization : Increased sanitization of high-touch areas and surfaces.
Limited Capacity : We observe physical distancing by limiting clinic occupancy.
Your well-being is paramount. Follow Health Canada and local health authorities' guidance for everyone's safety. Contact us for further questions or concerns. Your understanding and support are greatly appreciated.
Contact Family Care Dental Clinic for Your Consultation!
Our modern and relaxing clinic in North Vancouver is the perfect place for comprehensive dental care for the whole family. And we're just a call, click, or email away! Here's how you can reach us:
Call : (604) 987-3545
Thank you!
