The Impact of Seasonal Dryness on Oral Health

Cold weather is here—and along with it comes seasonal dryness. While it takes the most noticeable toll on our skin, it also impacts our overall wellness, including oral health. In fact, seasonal dryness affects your oral health in several ways, making it essential to mitigate and protect against issues it may cause.

Read on to better understand how seasonal dryness affects oral health and ways to reduce its impact.

Cold Weather Increases Sensitivity

Whenever we step outside, our oral cavity is immediately exposed to cold temperatures that increase sensitivity. This can cause something as basic as breathing to feel painful. This sensitivity occurs when cold air passes by tiny fissures on our teeth or space caused by gum recession. Cold air also causes your teeth and gums to contract, which can be painful. Try to breathe through your nose, with your mouth closed, as much as possible and use face coverings for protection.

Dry Mouth

Winter is synonymous with dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia, for many people. Dry mouth, coupled together with the sensitivity cold air causes, can lead to serious discomfort. It’s not something to ignore—dry mouth leads to tooth decay and gum disease. When saliva production is low, its unable to transport bacteria and other microbes away from the teeth and gums at its usual pace, if at all. This leaves sensitive oral tissues exposed and at risk! Avoid this condition by hydrating properly, reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, avoiding smoking and following a daily routine that includes flossing and using products like SALIVEA Extra Gentle, Low Foaming Toothpaste and Extra Gentle Mouthwash.

The Hot Beverage Effect

Hot beverages seem like the perfect way to warm up during winter weather. Unfortunately, drinking coffee, tea and hot cocoa can cause pain in your teeth and mouth. When the hot beverages hit microscopic cracks and fissures in our teeth, we quickly feel a jolt of never pain throughout our mouths. Avoid drinking beverages that are too hot and carefully cool down drinks before taking a sip.

Address Allergy Issues

As seasons change from hot to cold and vice versa, plants and animals become more active and more allergens are present, including grass, pollen and other incendiary airborne particles. This leads to painful sinus inflammation and infections that put pressure on the roots of your teeth, which can cause substantial pain. If you know you have allergies, take measures to address them according to your physician’s recommendation. If you’re not sure, have tests performed to find out.

Make your oral health a priority! Don’t ignore heightened sensitivity, dry mouth or pain. Visit your dentist for regular cleanings, to examine discomfort and to help you maintain a healthy mouth all your round.