It’s that time of year again: cold and flu season. Even if you take all the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe,you may still get sick. If you do end up with the cold or the flu, it is important to understand that you will still need to continue brushing and flossing.
To help lower your risk for the cold or the flu, never share your toothbrush with anyone else or use anyone else’s toothbrush.If you do end up with the cold or the flu, taking care of your smile may help you feel better. If you experience vomiting, ydo not immediately use your brush as you can cause additional dental damage. Harmful acids from your stomach will be present in your mouth, and brushing can help them damage your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with a salt water solution, and brush 30 minutes later.
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid anything that contains sugar. Furthermore, exercise caution with cough drops or other lozenges that are often laden with sugars and other products that can slowly cause dental damage via dental erosion. In addition, cough drops can damage your teeth if you bite into them.
Stephen Babin DDS wants to help you with your smile during cold and flu season. To schedule an appointment at our office in Metairie, Louisiana, please call us at 504-887-2428. Dr. Stephen Babin and our team look forward to seeing you smile.