Now that winter has arrived, seemingly everyone is missing school or work as viruses circulate. Having a fever, cough, or congestion is bad enough on its own, but did you know that flu season can also hurt your smile? The same is true for your child. Taking care of your little one when they’re sick can be exhausting and stressful. When you add tending to their teeth into the mix, it can feel like a real chore. Fortunately, following these 4 tips can help get you through it! Keep reading to learn more.
Tip #1: Replace Their Toothbrush
The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush approximately every 3 months. This is because the bristles not only collect germs but also wear down over time which renders them ineffective. If your kid is sick, though, you should replace it as soon as they start feeling better. You don’t want them to contaminate their mouth with sick germs once they’ve recovered. If they’re on antibiotics, you’re probably safe to get a new one 24 hours after their first dose because they’re no longer considered contagious.
Also, be sure that their toothbrush doesn’t come into contact with anyone else’s while they’re under the weather or else their gunk could spread!
Tip #2: Have Them Drink More Water
Water plays an essential role in regulating bodily functions, including the immune system. It maintains body temperature and helps loosen mucus buildup causing your child’s cough and stuffy nose. It also helps their teeth by preventing dry mouth. Harmful, cavity-causing bacteria thrive in dry conditions but rehydrating rinses them away. It also stimulates saliva production which is the human body’s natural defense to strengthen enamel and neutralize erosive acids.
Tip #3: Use Sugar-Free Products
Many cold and flu products marketed to youth come in appealing flavors like cherry, grape, and bubblegum. Unfortunately, that means they also often have high doses of sugar. This sweet ingredient can cling to your child’s pearly whites to attract toxic microbes that contribute to tooth decay. You can protect their little grin by choosing sugar-free options, instead.
Tip #4: Gargle with Salt Water
Salt is a natural remedy that’s generally safe for your kid’s teeth and can also alleviate sore throats and reduce infection. Try mixing ½ teaspoon into a cup of warm water and have them gargle that for a few seconds and then rinse it around their mouth before they spit it out. The saline coats their mouth and throat to loosen mucus and ease inflammation for some much-needed relief.
Now you know how to preserve your loved one’s smile while helping them recover as quickly and efficiently as possible!
About the Author
Dr. Lily at Shiny Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a parent, making her uniquely qualified to treat still-growing teeth. She spent her undergraduate education at Tulane University in New Orleans where she earned a degree in financing. After that, she earned a master’s degree in biomedical sciences at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and her doctorate at the Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California. Using state-of-the-art technology, she can help patients at any stage of development regardless of their dental needs. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (469) 925-0861.