Winter Wellness for Your Mouth: Protecting Teeth & Gums in Colder Weather

In this guide, we’re exploring some of the oral health challenges that are more prevalent in the winter months and sharing some simple tips that may help you to manage these issues with ease.

As always, if you’re experiencing any issues related to your oral health, you should always visit a dentist to get to the heart of the problem. Book an appointment with our team today.

Common dental problems in winter

Your teeth and gums will face some unique challenges in the winter months. Here’s what you need to look out for:

Increased dry mouth – from dry indoor air to cold outdoor air, you’re more likely to suffer dry mouth in the winter. You’re also much less likely to drink water in winter, which can lead to less saliva production. All of this adds up to a drier mouth, which creates the ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive.

Sensitive teeth – you might not notice your sensitive teeth in the summer, but cold air can be enough to trigger this condition. Sensitive teeth can be a sign that you have enamel damage, gum disease or cavities.

Poor diet – the winter months might send you looking for high calorie treats that can be very bad for your teeth. It’s also the festive time of year when we are more likely to be found snacking on chocolate and other treats. This can add up to an increased risk of tooth decay.

Changes in oral health habits – the winter weather can make people more likely to retreat indoors, go to bed earlier, or sleep in late. This can lead to changes in your oral care routine, which could include skipping brushing your teeth. You ideally need to be brushing twice a day in order to protect your oral health.

Teeth grinding – when you are cold, your muscles can tense up and this can lead to teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. This can cause damage to the chewing surface of your teeth and might lead to chips, cracks or cavities.

Cold sores and ulcers – if you’re run down and fighting cold and flu symptoms, you might be more likely to suffer from cold sores and ulcers. These often appear when you are run down, tired or stressed.

Safeguarding your oral health in winter

If you know you have sensitive teeth, it’s a good idea to switch to a remineralising toothpaste designed for sensitivity in the winter. You should also make sure that you stick to your oral care routine to ensure that your teeth are protected against plaque and tartar build up.

During the festive period, avoid snacking between meals. You don’t have to skip sweet treats entirely, but try to eat them with your main meal to minimise potential damage.

Finally, make sure you stay hydrated during the winter months so that you don’t suffer from dry mouth. Drinking water throughout the day will help to keep you hydrated while also helping to neutralise the PH level in your mouth and wash away food debris.

If you face a dental emergency in the winter, don’t ignore the issue. Book a routine or emergency appointment to quickly get to the bottom of the issue so you can get your oral health back on track. Our team is here to help with your winter dental problems.