When cold and flu season arrives in Canada, much of the focus is on avoiding germs, boosting immunity, and getting enough rest. But oral health often gets overlooked during this time of year.
A healthy mouth does more than protect your smile; it impacts your body’s ability to recover. From keeping up with brushing to choosing the right remedies, small habits go a long way in staying comfortable and reducing the risk of dental problems while you are sick.
8 Top Oral Health Tips During the Cold and Flu Season
Let’s look at some oral health tips to keep your mouth healthy during cold and flu season.
1. Stay Hydrated and Support Saliva Flow
Hydration is important all year, but it becomes even more vital when fighting illness. Fever, nasal congestion, and many over-the-counter medications can dry out the mouth. When saliva levels drop, bacteria can multiply quickly, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum irritation, and bad breath.
- Keep a reusable water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, as they contribute to dehydration.
- If your mouth feels persistently dry, try sugar-free lozenges or gum to stimulate saliva.
Moisture in the mouth helps neutralise acids, wash away food particles, and protect tooth enamel.
2. Replace Your Toothbrush After Illness
It may seem like a small detail, but replacing your toothbrush after recovering from the flu or a cold is an easy way to reduce the risk of lingering bacteria. Soft bristles can harbour germs even after rinsing.
- Always replace your toothbrush after an illness.
- Store it upright in an open container so it can dry completely.
- Avoid sharing toothbrushes or storing them too close to others in the household.
Regular replacement every three to four months is recommended, but after being sick, it’s best to start fresh right away.
3. Be Smart with Medications and Remedies
Cough syrups, throat lozenges, and other remedies often contain sugar to improve taste. However, frequent exposure to sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria. During cold and flu season, many people keep lozenges in their mouths for hours at a time, which bathes the teeth in sugar and increases the risk of decay.
- Look for sugar-free versions of syrups, lozenges, and cough drops.
- If you do use a sugary product, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Avoid brushing immediately after acidic syrups or juices, as enamel is temporarily softened.
These small steps protect your teeth without interfering with your recovery.
4. Maintain Daily Dental Care Habits
When you are sick, it can be easy to skip brushing and flossing. But keeping up your dental care routine is especially important during illness. Viruses and bacteria can build up in the mouth, leading to unpleasant odours, plaque, and gum inflammation.
- Brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss gently to remove food particles between teeth.
If you are vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a mild baking soda solution before brushing to protect your enamel.
Staying consistent helps keep your mouth healthy and contributes to overall comfort while you recover.
5. Choose Nutritious, Gentle Foods
Cold and flu symptoms often lead to a reduced appetite or a preference for comfort foods. Choosing soft, nourishing meals helps both your body and your teeth.
- Soups and broths hydrate and provide minerals.
- Yogurt with probiotics supports digestion and oral bacteria balance.
- Soft fruits like bananas, peaches, and cooked apples provide vitamins while being easy to chew.
- Avoid frequent snacking on sugary treats or sodas, as they can weaken enamel.
Balanced nutrition supports your immune system and oral health at the same time.
6. Rinse with Salt Water for Comfort
A simple salt-water rinse is a time-tested way to soothe a sore throat and irritated gums. It can also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
- Take a glass of warm water and add half a teaspoon of salt to it.
- Swish gently for 30 seconds, then spit out.
- Repeat up to several times a day as needed.
This is a safe and effective way to reduce discomfort without using harsh chemicals.
7. Protect Others by Practising Good Hygiene
During cold and flu season, germs spread quickly in households and workplaces. Practising good hygiene protects both your oral health and those around you.
- Avoid sharing cups, utensils, or toothbrush holders.
- Wash your hands before and after brushing and flossing.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or your elbow.
Taking these steps reduces the risk of reinfection and keeps family members healthy.
8. Know When to Seek Professional Dental Care
Sometimes illness can reveal or worsen dental concerns. If you notice tooth pain, bleeding gums, or sores that do not heal, it may be time to consult your dentist. Regular checkups help catch problems early, and professional cleanings support your oral health year-round.
Better Dental Hygiene Means Faster Recovery
Cold and flu season can take a toll on your energy, but maintaining daily oral health habits helps you feel better and recover faster. Staying hydrated, keeping up with brushing and flossing, choosing sugar-free remedies, and replacing your toothbrush after illness are all simple oral health tips that make a real difference.
At Bel Canto Dental in West Vancouver, our team is here to support your health in every season. From preventive dental care to advice on keeping your smile strong during cold and flu season, we are ready to help. Call us today at 604-926-7621 or use our appointment request form to book an appointment today.
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