Fighting Common Winter Oral Issues

The winter season is soon arriving, and according to the Farmer’s Almanac, it’s set to be an especially dry one for Texas this year. This means that it’s more important than ever to protect yourself from “Jack Frost nipping at your nose” (or mouth). Winter mouth issues are very common, and your Frisco dentist has some tips to share that will empower you to help your teeth combat the cold this season.

How to Fight Common Winter Mouth Issues

Unless you have plans to fly your family to the tropics for the next several months, you’re in for a cold and windy North Texas winter. You may not see snow in DFW this year, but the chilly dry air is harsh on your oral health in many ways. Here are some tips to help you combat the cold for your mouth this winter:

Keep Your Lips Moisturized and Stay Hydrated

Chapped lips are one of the most common winter mouth issues. The dry air causes the skin on your lips to crack, so it’s important to defend them. Using moisturizers like petroleum jelly are a great temporary fix, but the best way to truly keep your lips from drying out is to drink water. This will hydrate your body overall, and in turn keep your lips from chapping.

Limit Your Caffeine Intake

It may be tempting to double up on your morning cups of coffee during the busy winter season with holidays around every corner, but caffeine is extremely dehydrating. However you enjoy your caffeine, try to be mindful of your intake during the winter months to keep your body and mouth hydrated.

Breathe Through Your Nose When You Are Outside

This is likely one you haven’t thought of, but lower temperatures can cause significant discomfort to sensitive teeth. Be careful if you’re sipping a hot beverage while walking through the chilly air, as the quick changes in temperature can cause the enamel on your teeth to expand and contract. Believe it or not, this can make your teeth more susceptible to cracking or breaking. Breathing through your nose will help protect your teeth from the cold temperatures.

Steer Clear of Germs

If nothing else, this year has probably shown you how important it is to do everything in your power to stay healthy. Common winter illnesses typically come with a stuffy nose, which can result in you needing to breathe out of your mouth. This causes it to dry out and, without sufficient saliva flow, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and decay. Make sure to keep washing your hands often and prioritize avoiding illness this season.

While you can’t control the weather, you do have the power to keep your mouth and body strong this winter by protecting your teeth, keeping yourself hydrated, and staying healthy!

About the Practice

Dr. Marco Caballeros has always been an advocate for compassionate dentistry that bridges the gap between a patient and their doctor. He believes in arming his patients with the knowledge they need to take the best care of their smiles as possible. Outside of his regular practice at On Point Dentistry, he has completed five hundred hours of continuing education to enhance his own skills and provide the highest quality of care. Is your mouth ready for the coming winter months? Schedule an appointment online or call (469) 476-4092.