Our Five Tips To Protect Your Teeth This Winter
Did you know that the cold winter weather can prove hazardous for your teeth? The drop in temperature throughout the winter months can lead to a wide range of dental issues. This includes tooth sensitivity and the development of cracks in the teeth. So, what can you do to help protect your teeth from the harsh elements?
Discover some of the best oral healthcare tips you should follow below.
Make sure you undergo a winter check-up
The best way to look after your teeth this winter is to attend a dental check-up. The teeth are known to expand during the colder weather. This can lead to cracks developing within the enamel. If they aren’t repaired quickly, they could expand further causing permanent damage to the enamel of the teeth.
By booking an appointment with one of our skilled dentists, we can help identify any potential issues quickly. We can also carry out any repair work if necessary, as well as ensure your teeth are in the best condition for winter.
Don’t neglect your gums
Winter is notorious for being the prime cold and flu season. Did you know the germs that make you ill with a cold are also the same ones that can cause gum infections? If you are prone to gum disease, you are at an increased risk of developing issues during the colder months.
Keep a lookout for any signs of inflammation or redness of the gums. Rinsing the mouth out with an antibacterial mouthwash twice a day will also help to keep any germs at bay.
Switch up your teeth cleaning routine
If you already suffer from sensitive teeth, you’ll want to switch up your cleaning routine. Change to a soft-bristled brush if you don’t already use one. You should also make sure you are using a sensitive toothpaste, and that you are brushing twice each day.
A regular routine of brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing and visiting your dentist can really make a difference to your oral health. At CK Dental, our hygienist can give your teeth a thorough clean, and check on your home-care, to make sure your routine is effective.
Protect your teeth with a mouth guard
If you enjoy partaking in winter sports, a mouth guard can prove invaluable during winter. Not only does this reduce the risk of injury to the teeth, but it also helps to protect them from the cold. We recommend that you use a custom mouth guard, which is also something we can help with at CK Dental. That way, it will fit the teeth perfectly, guaranteeing the guard will stay firmly in place.
Drink lots of water
As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to switch to more hot drinks. Coffee, tea, and hot chocolate may be comforting on a cold day, but they can also damage the teeth. You will also find that drinking hot drinks on a cold day can increase tooth sensitivity. So, be sure to drink plenty of water to keep the teeth protected.
These are some of the best ways to protect your teeth this winter. The good news is that we are taking new patient registrations following the opening of our new clinic at 1 West Mall in Clifton. So if you are a new or existing patient, why not book an appointment today for your winter teeth check-up.