Cold/Flu Season and Your Oral Health

December 4, 2018

This time of year is beautiful in Olathe, Kansas with all of the lights and the snow. This time of year is also a time for sneezing, coughing, and germs. Catching a cold can be inconvenient. Getting the flu is not fun and in some extreme cases, can be life-threatening. While you may not associate cold and flu season with your oral health, one can affect another. The best thing you can do to protect yourself this season is to wash your hands often, stay home if you are sick, get a flu shot, drink plenty of water, and eat foods rich with vitamins and nutrients. Like with your oral health, prevention is your best friend. 

Sinus Pressure or Toothache?

The congestion often associated with a cold or flu can cause a lot of pressure to be felt in your sinus cavities. Along with a headache, possibly puffy eyes, and nose stuffiness or running, you might feel pain above your upper teeth. In some situations, if you already have a problem with a tooth, a cold, flu, or any type of congestion can exasperate the pain. It is important to address a toothache if it sticks around after your sickness goes away.

Wash Before You Brush

Washing your hands frequently is important. Washing your hands before you brush your teeth is a smart way to transfer germs from your hands to your mouth. Even in seasons with lower risk of cold or flu, it is still a good idea to wash your hands before brushing your teeth.

Snoring or Sleep Apnea?

Congestion in your sinuses can cause you to snore. If the snoring is new and goes away when the cold does, you probably are not facing obstructive sleep apnea. However, if the snoring is an issue you have been dealing with for a long time, it may be worth determining if it is obstructive sleep apnea.

Cold and Flu Season Can Impact Your Smile’s Health

Take precaution this winter to prevent a cold or flu from getting you down. To schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Spring Hill, Osawatomie, Edgerton, Shawnee, Johnson County, De Soto, Paola, Lawrence, and all surrounding communities.