There’s no doubt this is a magical time of the year. From delicious feasts to bright lights adorning many homes to the chill in the air, many of us savor the winter months, especially around the holidays. It is also crucial to pay extra attention to your health; while you are surely aware that the cold air brings sniffles and colds, it can also cause distress to your mouth. In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentists discuss the best ways to keep your smile healthy this winter and the things you should be aware of.
Make It a Point to Keep Warm
While many savor the colder weather, it is important to stay warm enough to prevent excessive teeth chattering. Shivering is our body’s natural way of warming itself up when cold, and teeth grinding and jaw clenching are parts of this process. In small amounts, they may not seem like big deals, but when it becomes excessive they can cause damage to your mouth and teeth. In more severe cases, persistent teeth grinding or jaw clenching can turn into bruxism or TMJ Disorder — two interconnected issues. If you grind your teeth enough, you could end up needing serious restorative procedures done to fix damage to your teeth. With this in mind, make sure to stay bundled up, and take advantage of a roaring fire, should you have a fireplace.
Stay Hydrated
When we are not sweating every time we step out the door, it can be easy to forget about drinking enough water. It is immensely important, however, to drink plenty of water in the wintertime, as well. When it is colder outside, the air is frequently dryer, which can lead to Xerostomia (or dry mouth). To help mitigate this, you should drink between 2.5 to 4 liters a day, depending on your size.
Pay Attention to Sensitive Teeth
Drinking Warm beverages is a major enjoyment when it is cold outside, but if you are sipping a mug of hot cocoa or tea and notice that your teeth are hurting, it could be a sign of worn-down enamel. Similarly, if you notice sensitivity to the cold, it might indicate the same thing. If this is the case, you should get yourself a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. it should also have fluoride to help strengthen your enamel. If the pain and sensitivity persist, you should schedule a checkup with your dentist, so they can see if anything is wrong. In cases where your enamel wears down too much, you may need to under restorative procedures to repair any damage that has been caused. It is always advisable to play it safe and see your dentist if anything seems to be amiss with your smile.
Schedule an Appointment to Stay Healthy This Winter
We hope you enjoy this winter as much as you possibly can, and a major component of this is staying healthy. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your mouth is in the best possible shape. You can also call E-Care Dentistry in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.