Cold and flu season doesn’t just impact your overall well-being, but it can also have ramifications on your oral health. From keeping your regular dentist appointments to practicing more stringent oral health practices, there are several ways you can keep your mouth healthy during flu season. Consider the following four tips to help you maintain your dental health when combatting the common cold.

Top Tips for a Healthy Mouth This Flu Season

1. Stay Hydrated

When you are sick, your body uses more fluids to function properly, which is why it’s crucial to stay hydrated if you think you may have a cold or the flu. Without proper hydration, your mouth can become dry, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and multiply. Drinking plenty of water will help your saliva flow, which is responsible for keeping teeth clean and tooth decay in check.

2. Reduce Your Sugar Intake

While it can be tempting to comfort yourself with sugar when you’re sick, this isn’t good for your dental health. Additionally, cough syrups and lozenges can be loaded with sugar, which can accelerate decay and cavities. To keep yourself out of the dentist office for restorative work, opt for sugar-free or tablet varieties of medication.

3. Practice Proper Hygiene

Even though you may not feel like getting out of bed, it’s important to continue your oral care routine when you’re sick. This means brushing your teeth and flossing regularly to help prevent decay from developing.

4. Visit Your Dentist

You should keep your regular dentist checkups during cold and flu season. While you don’t want to go if you have the flu, reschedule and attend that appointment. Professional teeth cleaning and assessments help the dentist to gauge the status of your oral health and treat anything when it first develops, rather than once it’s worsened.

If cold and flu season is motivating you to take better care of your overall wellbeing, consider addressing your oral health with the help of Pure Dental Care in New York City. The dentists on staff are trained in a full range of oral care services, from preventative and restorative procedures to cosmetic work. To learn more about Pure Dental Care, visit them online or call (212) 256-1292 to schedule an appointment at their Manhattan office.