People across America seem to have a lot to complain about when the weather gets cold. While many people are well-aware of winter-related inconveniences like shoveling the driveway, waiting for the car to warm up, putting chains on the tires, or simply shivering in the cold air, some may be surprised to learn about the oral health issues the colder months can bring. Here are a few of the problems the cold can cause for your mouth and what you can do about them.
Dry, Uncomfortable, and Cracked: How to Survive When Your Lips Are Chapped
While it may be tempting to indulge in a hot shower during cold weather, this can dry out your skin as well as your lips. The hot water of the shower causes the pores of the skin to open, and exposure to the cold air afterward can lead to the loss of a lot of moisture. To make matters worse, the cold and dry wind that often comes with the winter months can dry out your lips further, leading to uncomfortable cracks and bleeding.
You can prevent or manage this issue by wearing medicated lip balm and a scarf to protect your lips from the wind. At home, using a humidifier or applying petroleum jelly to your lips can help them stay hydrated.
Dry Mouth Can Send Your Oral Health South
While it isn’t terribly flattering to say that something is cheaper than spit, saliva actually plays an invaluable part in your oral health by flushing away harmful germs and substances while keeping the teeth healthy, strong, and lubricated so they can avoid injuries. Unfortunately, the stuffy noses that often come during winter can drive many people to breathe through their mouths, thereby increasing their saliva’s rate of evaporation. A few great ways to prevent dry mouth include drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and limiting your caffeine intake.
The Cold Has a Proclivity for Causing Dental Sensitivity
Like the bodies of all living things, the human body is designed to maintain a constant temperature, and changes in how warm or cold its parts are can lead to varying levels of stress. The teeth are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, and colder weather can lead to greater dental sensitivity. Taking care to breathe through your nose when outside can help you prevent this problem, and using fluoridated toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water can help keep your teeth insulated against cold air.
Don’t let the winter leave your smile worse for the wear. Practicing excellent oral hygiene, seeing your dentist regularly, limiting your sugar intake, and staying hydrated are great ways to keep your teeth in excellent shape during the winter months.
About the Author
Dr. Hiren Patel earned his dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has completed more than 500 hours of continuing education coursework. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Texas Dental Association. His office in San Antonio provides general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more tips on keeping your smile safe from the winter weather, contact his office online or dial (210) 590-2736.