Summer colds and your teeth

The winter may be behind us, but bacteria and viruses don’t give up that easily! The average adult gets two to three cold in a year and they can happen all year round. But how do they affect our teeth?

1. Blocked nose. When we have a blocked nose, it can affect our teeth in more than one way. Mouth breathing can dry out the mouth which reduces the saliva. Saliva helps to wash away bacteria and harmful acids so a lack of it increases the risk of tooth decay. Secondly when you can’t breathe through your nose, toothbrushing becomes harder to do, meaning you don’t spend long enough time doing it.
2. If you suffer from sinusitis, the increased sinus pressure can cause toothache-like symptoms which can be painful.
3. When you become unwell, you can often get dehydrated which again reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth. It is important to ensure you are getting enough fluid into your body by drinking plenty of water.
4. When we have a blocked nose, a cough or a sore throat, we often reach for syrupy medication. These syrups and pastilles contain lots of sugar which is very bad for your teeth. Try and find sugar free versions and drink plenty of water to help control the acids in the mouth.

If you have neglected your teeth after a cold or flu, or if you are having any other problems with your teeth it is important to book an appointment. Contact us on 01844 343381 to book an appointment or visit our dental practice in Princes Risborough.

Dr. Sanjay Narda