Blog – O’Fallon, MO

As the winter season approaches, taking extra care of your teeth is essential. Unfortunately, the cold weather and low humidity can cause various problems for your teeth. Some of it includes increased sensitivity and a greater risk of cavities. Cold weather can take a toll on your teeth if you’re not careful. Winter brings dry air, chilly temperatures, and potentially extended periods between dental visits. Here are five easy tips to keep your teeth healthy throughout winter.

What Happens To Teeth In Winter?

The combination of cold weather and low humidity can also increase tooth sensitivity. Cold temperatures can cause enamel to become brittle and break away from teeth easier. This makes them more vulnerable to bacteria that cause tooth decay and cavities. Low humidity levels also make saliva less effective at protecting teeth from bacteria. It leaves them exposed to acid-producing germs. 

Can Teeth Hurt With Change Of Weather?

Yes! Teeth can become very sensitive in cold weather because the enamel on your teeth becomes thinner and more brittle in colder temperatures. This means that even small changes in temperature or pressure can cause severe pain in the affected area. The good news is that you can reduce this sensitivity and protect your teeth during the winter months. 

Winter Tips For Healthy Teeth 

Reduce The Amount Of Acid And Sugar In Your Diet 

Eating too many acidic or sugary foods increases your risk of cavities. By reducing the amount of acidity and sugar in your diet, you’ll reduce the chance of tooth decay or erosion due to prolonged exposure to these substances. If you indulge in foods high in sugar or acidity, brush or rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash shortly afterward. It helps neutralize acids that eat away at the enamel on contact for up to 12 hours after use!

Use A Fluoride Mouthwash 

Fluoride is an essential mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. It helps strengthen weakened enamel and reduces cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. Using fluoride mouthwash daily will keep your teeth strong and healthy during winter. 

Use A Mouthguard 

 Suppose you participate in any winter sports or activities that put your mouth at risk of getting hit. In that case, it’s essential to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard. This will protect your teeth from any force that could cause damage during high-impact activities like hockey or skiing. Wearing a custom-fitted night guard while sleeping helps protect against grinding your teeth at night, which can lead to cracked enamel over time if left unchecked.

Brush Twice A Day 

Proper brushing is essential for keeping teeth clean and preventing plaque buildup from occurring throughout the winter months. Be sure to brush twice a day for the best results! Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste helps keep plaque at bay while strengthening weakened enamel with every brushstroke.

Breathe Through Your Nose When Outside 

Cold air causes airways to narrow, making breathing through the nose challenging but beneficial. This is because it warms the air before entering the lungs & body, reducing chances for infections or irritations caused by cold, dry air. It enters directly into the lungs via mouth breathing leading to even more issues, such as asthma & sinus infections. Cold air can dry the mouth’s surface, making it more vulnerable to bacteria overgrowth if left unchecked. Breathing through your nose when outside helps add moisture back into the environment, which keeps bacteria levels low around tooth surfaces. 

The Bottom Line 

Taking care of your teeth during winter takes more effort than usual. But following these five simple tips will help ensure that your smile stays bright all season long. From reducing acidity and sugar intake in food choices to using a fluoride rinse, you’ll be able to take good care of your teeth this winter.

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