It is officially flu season. When trying to recover from the flu it is important to remember the body mouth connection. Greenwood, IN dentist Dr. Benjamin Stevens reminds patients that preventative oral hygiene is not just good for your teeth, but for your whole body and well being. Here are some oral hygiene tips for a speedy flu recovery.
Fight The Flu With Oral Hygiene
- Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is good for your body, and your oral health. When you are sick your body can become dehydrated quickly. Cold medicines may also dry out your mouth. Staying hydrated will help you body fight off the bad germs and keep you from developing dry mouth. Dry mouth puts you at risk for developing tooth decay. Make sure you drink plenty of water and try to avoid sugary fruit drinks. Throat lozenges can also help stimulate saliva production while soothing your scratchy throat. Just try to find sugar free options to keep tooth decay at bay.
- Swish, Spit, Wait to Brush: If you have the stomach flu throwing up is likely. This unpleasant experience is followed by an unpleasant taste and feeling in your mouth. After you throw up try to just swish and spit some water or diluted mouthwash. Brushing your teeth right after can increase the damage the stomach acid could do to your teeth. After about a half hour you can safely brush your teeth.
- Proper Hygiene: Remember to always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and try to maintain your normal oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing can not only make you feel a little better, but will keep your teeth and gums healthy and advanced avoid oral health concerns. Another hygiene tip for the flu season, once you start feeling better, replace your toothbrush. And never, ever share your toothbrush with anyone!
Schedule An Appointment
Stay healthy this winter by eating a nutritious diet, washing your hands, and brushing and flossing regularly. Schedule a visit to our Greenwood dentist office for an oral health exam and professional dental cleaning so you can smile bright all season long! Dr. Stevens offers state of the art dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. Call our Greenwood office or schedule an appointment online today.