Did you know that staying hydrated while you’re sick can also improve your health? It’s true because liquids will help keep your mouth fresh and clean by washing my harmful acids and eliminating or lowering your risk for dry mouth. Various foods and medications may contribute to dry mouth, so exercise caution when taking any products. Furthermore, if you’re using any cough drops to deal with the cold or flu, be aware that some of them contain sugars that can damage your tooth enamel.
If you find yourself often being sick and vomiting, the stomach acids that travel up through your esophagus can damage your teeth. They are capable of chewing through tooth enamel, so it is important to rinse them away after you are feeling sick. However, do not brush your teeth, as toothpaste can be too abrasive during this time. Instead, try using mouthwash or sugar-free gum.
It is important to never share your oral health care cleaning utensils before, during, or after being sick. This is due to the fact that doing so risks the chance of contamination both for yourself and for others. Examples include sharing your toothbrush with others or using someone else’s toothbrush.
If you suffer from poor oral hygiene, contact Chicago Osteopathic Hospital Dental Clinic PC at 773-947-4665 to see which treatments are right for you. If you are looking for a dentist in Chicago, Illinois, you can schedule an oral examination with Dr. William Wilson and our team at our dentist office. We will get you back to smiling once more!