Like it or not, winter is here and while the season brings plenty of excitement, it also brings plenty of sickness. With every wave of colds, flu, and seasonal viruses, we see people stock up on tissues and immune-boosting supplements; however, one key part of staying healthy is often overlooked: your oral health.
Consider the first fast fact about oral health published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): “Oral health is essential to general health and well-being.”
And the reason is rather obvious: As the entry point to your respiratory and digestive systems, your mouth can influence how your body handles illness, which is where strong oral hygiene comes into play this winter.
Read more: Winter Woes: Connecting Oral Health and Seasonal IllnessA Healthy Mouth Supports a Strong Immune System
When plaque and harmful bacteria build up, inflammation can compromise your immune system, causing it to consistently work harder. This constant low-grade immune response can make you more vulnerable to seasonal illness. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and staying consistent with cleanings reduces the bacterial load and frees up your immune system to do its job.
Winter Dry Mouth Can Increase Infection Risk
Cold air, indoor heating, certain medications, and dehydration all contribute to dry mouth, or xerostomia during winter. Saliva is your body’s natural defense against germs because it helps neutralize bacteria and wash away food particles. When saliva production drops, bacteria thrive, which can unfortunately raise your risk of cavities, gum inflammation, and even worsening cold or flu symptoms.
- Pro-tip: Stay hydrated, use a humidifier, and talk to your dentist if dryness persists.
Oral Bacteria Can Influence Respiratory Illness
Studies show that poor oral hygiene can play a role in respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. In fact, poor oral habits have been known to increase the risk of getting respiratory infections. If that alone isn’t a reason to floss?!
Here’s the concern: Harmful bacteria from the mouth can travel into the airways, especially when you’re already fighting a virus. Naturally, keeping your gums and teeth healthy helps reduce the load of these harmful microbes.
Being Sick Can Disrupt Your Routine
It’s hard to think about much else when you’re under the weather. So, we know how easy it can be to skip brushing or flossing, but this is when your oral hygiene matters most. Cough drops with sugar, mouth breathing, vomiting, and dehydration can all impact your teeth and gums.
Whenever possible, switch to sugar-free cough drops and do your best to maintain a consistent brushing routine.
Don’t forget! Leverage those Dental Benefits!!
A Healthy Winter Starts With Your Smile
Strong oral health is an important part of your body’s winter wellness toolkit. Good daily habits and routine dental visits can help protect you from bacteria buildup and support your immune system throughout the season. Due for a cleaning? Schedule your appointment todayand celebrate a healthier winter season!