How to avoid tooth pain this winter
Tooth pain can become unbearable during the winter months. Cold air and freezing temperatures can affect your teeth causing them to become increasingly sensitive.
Here are 10 Dental care tips that will help you protect your teeth and reduce the risk of uncomfortable tooth pain:
Don’t over brush
- Brushing teeth too often can wear away the enamel and actually damage the surface of the tooth. Brush your teeth at least twice per day, and floss your teeth once per day.
Try a different toothpaste
- Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride or try one that is specifically formulated for sensitive teeth.
Reduce the amount of acids and sugars in your diet
- Acids and sugars can damage the surface of your teeth and break down the delicate enamel that protects them. Your teeth are frequently under attack by acids, but the good news is this damage is constantly being reversed. Acids leech minerals from the enamel through a process called demineralization. Fortunately, the natural process or remineralization replaces those minerals and strengthens the teeth all over again – and your saliva is a key player. Saliva contains minerals such as calcium and phosphates to help repair the teeth. Fluoride is another mineral that helps repair weakened enamel. However, replacing lost minerals can only do so much to prevent the effects of sugar on teeth if you eat lots of sweets and starches throughout the day.
Use a fluoride mouthwash
- Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride at least twice a day to rinse away debris, kill odour causing bacteria and help protect the sensitive enamel.
Breathe in through your nose
- Breathing through your nose prevents the cold air from hitting your teeth while exhaling through your mouth allows the air from the lungs to keep them warm.
Drink warm beverages
- Sipping on a warm beverage can keep the teeth from becoming too cold, especially if you are going to be outside.
Clean your toothbrush
- Keeping your tooth brush clean and replacing in every few months, reduces your exposure to bacteria that could eventually lead to gingivitis and tooth decay.
Visit your dentist regularly
- Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and routine fluoride treatments will also help to protect your teeth throughout the winter
Use a mouthguard
- Wearing a mouth guard when you are going to be outside for long periods of time will prevent you from forcing your teeth together while you work and keep them from clicking together if your teeth begin to chatter from the cold.
Wear a scarf
- Wearing a scarf will keep your lower jaw and neck warm and can also be moved to cover your mouth if necessary.
Follow these tips to prevent tooth pain during the winter months. If you have a dental issue, schedule an appointment today with Crystal Smiles, an Okotoks dentist 587-757-9809.
At Crystal Smiles your bright and healthy smile is our top priority. That’s why we take the time to listen to your unique needs and concerns. We use gentle, efficient cleaning techniques, and our experienced dental team is invested in meeting all of your Okotoks family’s dental needs; from calming anxieties to teaching good habits, from regular check-ups to sophisticated dental surgery.
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