Have you ever realized that cold weather can adversely affect your oral health? Unfortunately, cold weather can negatively impact your teeth in a variety of ways. The frigid air can cause cracks, nerve pain, exacerbate already existing dental issues, and increase sensitivity. Not to mention, all of those delectable holiday treats and stress don’t help! Nevertheless, we have simple solutions for you! In this article, we strive to emphasize the significance of regular cleanings to keep your smile healthy throughout the winter season. We will hone in on why our oral health suffers in the winter, the benefits of getting a winter dental cleaning near Joliet, and share tips to protect your smile this winter. Let’s embrace winter with a healthy smile!
Why Oral Health Suffers in the Winter
You’ll want to start the holiday season strong! When the temperatures change, teeth can expand and contract causing unnecessary cracks. These cracks can feel uncomfortable and create sensitive teeth. Cold air can also stimulate nerve endings inducing sharp pains. Furthermore, cold weather and a lack of vitamin D can exacerbate existing dental issues and cause your enamel and gums to be more sensitive. Therefore, visiting your dentist before the cold air sets in is a must as well as brushing and flossing daily!
You’re probably already pondering those mouthwatering holiday dishes shared amongst family and friends. Or maybe you are simply fretting about hosting Thanksgiving/Christmas because the house looks like a tornado tore through it. Either way, sugary desserts and holiday stress both contribute to unfavorable oral issues. When referring to meals and beverages, the sugar from sweet foods and drinks feed bacteria in your mouth. Then, the bacteria produce acid which eventually eats away at your tooth enamel. This process causes cavities — no fun! Likewise, those cute little bacteria can also cause plaque, a sticky film that can build up on the gums and teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through proper oral care, it can harden into what’s called, tarter, and cause gum disease. As you can see, it is imperative that you remember to book your dental cleaning near Joliet before the holiday season!
Developing stress in regards to holiday parties and socializing with loved ones is another reason why oral health suffers in the winter. Stress compromises the immune system and can lead to dry mouth, teeth grinding, oral inflammation, and comfort eating.
Take some holiday time for yourself to enjoy a yoga class, meditate, or book a massage! You deserve it and so does your oral health and well-being.
The Benefits of Winter Dental Cleanings
Cleaning now prevents issues during the busy holiday season! Not to mention, routine cleanings can truly help you save that mula by detecting dental problems early! If you don’t tackle dental issues early on in the game, they might become too expensive to fix. First off, regular cleanings can target potential problems including tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw concerns. Secondly, these professional cleanings can also help prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, they can help remedy bad breath and brighten your smile! If you need guidance on how to manage cold weather challenges like tooth sensitivity and dry mouth, your dentist appointment can provide you with helpful information! So, feel free to book your dental cleaning near Joliet before the Christmas Carolers sing!
Tips to Protect Your Smile This Winter
Let’s first examine how you can prevent tooth pain in cold weather. Do you have a scarf at home? If not, today’s the day to buy one! Scarfs can keep your face and mouth warm. And, if you forget to wear a scarf, protect your mouth with your lips and breathe through your nose.
For your daily dental care regimen, staying hydrated is extremely important too! Water can easily wash away food and bacteria that could cause cavities. It can also neutralize acids inhibiting the erosion of tooth enamel. When you are hydrated, your mouth produces more saliva which assists your teeth in absorbing minerals and digesting food.
Try your best to avoid an excessive amount of holiday sweet treats and beverages! Your oral health will express gratitude to you in the long run. Most importantly, make sure to schedule your regular dental checkups to maintain oral health during the colder months and throughout the year!
Winter Wellness: Smile Bright This Season!
We hope we have offered you more clarity about why our oral health suffers in the winter, the benefits of winter dental cleanings, and tips to protect your smile during the winter season! If you remember to wear your scarf and protect your smile with your lips, while breathing through your nose, you’ll experience less tooth pain this season. Cutting back on sugary desserts and beverages as well as taking time to de-stress over the holidays will enhance your health and well-being. Regular cleanings can detect potential problems early, remove plaque and tartar buildup, freshen your breath, and brighten your smile! Staying hydrated can wash away bacteria, neutralize acids, and absorb minerals/digest food more efficiently. Be fearless, and book your dental cleaning with Shorewood Family Dental Care in Joliet today before the year ends and before your dental benefits expire! Afterall, winter wellness starts with clean teeth!
