As the winter chill sweeps across Australia, bringing the promise of the cold season, our thoughts often turn to warm jumpers, roaring fires, and perhaps a hot chocolate. What often gets overlooked, is the impact of the colder months on our oral health.
It is not just about keeping the rest of your body warm; your teeth and gums are facing their own unique set of challenges when the mercury drops. Ignoring them can lead to a world of discomfort, from nagging sensitivity to more serious issues that demand a trip to your local dentist. So, let’s get down to discuss how to manage winter-related oral health challenges while keeping ourselves warm.
What Winter Does to Your Mouth
The most immediate and irritating effects of colder weather is tooth sensitivity. Imagine stepping outside and taking a deep breath of crisp, chill air, only for a sharp, shooting pain shooting through your teeth. Sometimes, even a hot drink can cause the same.
The outer layer of your teeth, the enamel while very strong is not entirely impermeable. Tiny cracks can form due to temperature fluctuations which expose the underlying dentin. Dentin is a porous tissue containing microscopic tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve. When exposed to cold air or hot liquids, these tubules transmit the sensation directly to the nerve, resulting in the “zing.” Gum recession, which exposes the root surface can also heighten this sensitivity.
Winter often brings a whole range of other issues such as dry mouth, or xerostomia. Most heated homes in winter dry out the air which leads us to breathe through our mouth, especially when we suffer a cold or flu. Lack of saliva creates ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. Imagine turning off the sprinklers in a bushfire risk area – not what you want.
Another factor is the change in our diet. Winter often calls for comfort foods such asstews, baked goods and sugary treats. Add the increase in hot beverages like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, your teeth are essentially subjected to a continuous sugar bath. These sugary indulgences when combined with reduced saliva, create ideal conditions for the oral bacteria. In addition, alcoholic drinks such as wine or spirits are acidic and can also contribute to enamel erosion.
Finally, winter increases colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. The medications taken for these ailments such as decongestants, can contribute to dry mouth. Also, a compromised immune system can make your gums susceptible to inflammation and infection.
Your Proactive Game Plan
Not all is doom and gloom. The good news is that managing these challenges is achievable with a few straightforward adjustments to your routine.
- Change to Sensitive Toothpaste: If you suffer from sensitivity, switch to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. Such toothpastes include ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride which block the microscopic tubules in your dentin, dulling the nerve’s response to temperature changes
- Hydrate Regularly: Drink plenty of water even if you are not sweating. Water is essential for maintaining healthy saliva production. Make a conscious effort to sip on water throughout the day. Limit sugary and acidic beverages and rinse your mouth with water if you drink them. A humidifier in your bedroom can help with dry mouth because it adds moisture to the air. The Australian Dental Association (ADA) consistently highlights water as the best drink for oral health, aiding in rinsing off sugars and acids
- Breathe Through Your Nose, Not Your Mouth: While a stuffy nose can make it difficult, try to cultivate nose breathing, especially when outdoors in cold air. Breathing through your mouth exposes your teeth to the cold, increasing sensitivity. A scarf pulled up over your mouth can offer a simple barrier against the cold. If you suffer from chronic mouth breathing, have a chat with your dentist to investigate underlying causes like allergies or obstructed airways
- Mind Your Snacks: While comfort foods are appealing, try to balance them with tooth-friendly options. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like carrots and celery act as natural toothbrushes. Limit processed sugars and sticky foods that cling to your teeth. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the ADA both advocate for a diet low in sugar to decrease the risk of tooth decay
- Master the Brush and Floss: This is crucial in winter. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed, especially after a cold or flu
- Visit your Dentist Regularly: Winter is an ideal time to visit your dentist. Your dentist can identify issues like hairline cracks, existing decay, or gum inflammation. They can also offer advice and ensure your oral health is robust enough to withstand the winter chill. The Australian Dental Council (ADC) and the ADA stress the importance of regular dental visits for maintaining optimal oral health and early detection of issues
Winter in Australia offers its own unique charm, but it also demands a mindful approach to your oral health. By understanding the specific challenges posed by colder temperatures, dry air, and shifts in diet, and by adopting a few simple, proactive strategies, you can ensure your smile remains bright, healthy, and pain-free, no matter how low the mercury drops. So, bundle up, stay hydrated, keep brushing, and remember: a healthy mouth makes for a happier winter.
References:
- Australian Dental Association (ADA) – https://www.teeth.org.au/
- Australian Dental Council (ADC) – https://adc.org.au/
- World Health Organization (WHO) – https://www.who.int/
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