Saying goodbye to summer isn’t easy—especially when it means facing the many health risks of the fall and winter, such as the flu. When this illness strikes, many people tend to focus on getting the rest they need to recover. However, Waterford Dental Health in New London County, CT, reminds patients that getting sick can also expose the mouth to cavity-causing bacteria and acids. Getting your annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the virus. But if you do end up catching the flu, consider these oral health and teeth cleaning tips.

3 Ways to Protect Your Oral Health When You Have the Flu

1. Don’t Share

The flu virus is highly contagious and can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours. This means that any germs on a toothbrush can continue to thrive after they’ve been exposed to your mouth. To prevent the illness from spreading, never share your toothbrush with others. While you won’t get reinfected by continuing to use the same brush, you can kill remaining germs by soaking the device in mouthwash or boiling it in water for three minutes.

2. Go Sugar-Free

Cough drops can provide much-needed relief when the flu causes you to have a sore throat. However, sucking on cough drops can expose the teeth to sugar—and increase the risk of cavity development. For that reason, use sugar-free cough drops to soothe the throat.

Similarly, many beverages used to replenish electrolytes—such as sports drinks—during illness may also contain high amounts of sugar. To avoid damaging teeth, stick to water. Water will also keep you hydrated, ease dry mouth, and help with teeth cleaning by rinsing away bacteria and food debris.  

3. Swish After Getting Sick  

If having the flu causes you to vomit, you may be eager to brush right away to clean teeth. However, stomach acids in vomit can damage enamel when rubbed against teeth with a toothbrush. To prevent enamel damage, rinse the mouth with water after getting sick. After 30 minutes, you can resume your normal teeth cleaning routine and brush as needed.

Visiting the dentist for regular teeth cleanings is another essential part of keeping your mouth healthy all year-round. Offering comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services in New London County, Waterford Dental Health provides all the professional care you need to keep your smile in top shape. Whether they are providing teeth cleaning or tooth fillings, these dentists will address your oral health in a comfortable and stress-free manner. To learn more about their treatment options, visit them online. For appointments, call (860) 447-2235.