Caring For Your Mouth When You're Sick

Whether you have a cold, seasonal flu, or Coronavirus, there are a few things you can do to take care of yourself. It is very important to take care of your mouth. A healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy body. If you need an emergency dentist in London please get in touch.

Practice good hygiene

Practicing good hygiene on a daily basis has so many health benefits. Remember, you should never share your toothbrush with anyone else. The flu virus can live on moist surfaces for up to 72 hours. To prevent spreading the virus, make sure you are the only one using your toothbrush. If you have had your toothbrush for three to four months, it’s time to throw it out and replace it with a new one. Once you have recovered after illness in addition to cleaning and disinfecting the house, you need to toss that toothbrush, which could act as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and viruses!

Wash you hands before cleaning your teeth

It is really important to clean your hands for at least 20 seconds BEFORE you start brushing, flossing or interdental brushes. Otherwise you will be transferring bacteria or viruses from your hands into your mouth and potentially infect yourself! See the WHO guidance on how to clean your hands properly.

Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables

Over 80% of your immune system is in the gut, so when it's healthy, we tend to be able to fight off infections faster and better.  Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. There is lots of research in taking Vitamin D and C supplements. Avoid sugar and processed foods. We can help you kick sugar in just 14 days.

Choose the right fluids

Water is your best friend. It is the safest thing to drink and will help to replenish your body. If you’re craving extra comfort and want a hot drink, try a hot tea without sugar or sweeteners. Avoid hot water with lemon and sugar, as this is very acidic and will damage your teeth. The sugar will also fuel cavity-causing bacteria.

Avoid having a dry mouth

When you’re under the weather, you may feel that you get a dry mouth quite often. Having a dry mouth can actually put you at a greater risk of developing cavities. Make sure to drink plenty of water. You can also try chewing on sugar-free gum, which will help activate your saliva glands and increase your saliva production, keeping your mouth moist.

Choose sugar free medicines

If you need short-term medication, choose things such as sugar-free cough and throat sweets. Make sure you check the ingredients before you buy, as many contain sugar and artificial sweeteners such as fructose and corn syrup. The same goes for pain medication such as Calpol, get the sugar free version. If you’re looking to kick sugar, head over to the Rewards Project charity website to find out more.

What to do after vomiting

Vomiting can be an unfortunate symptom. If you vomit, you may feel like you want to go and brush your teeth right away. However, it’s actually better to rinse with water for 30 seconds  before brushing. After vomiting, your stomach acid can come back up and leave a coating on the teeth. If you brush straight away, you’ll be brushing the acid around the enamel potentially wearing it down. Enamel is very important, as it acts as the protective outer shell of your teeth.

There is a connection between your oral and your overall health. When you take necessary steps to maintain oral health, there’s a good chance your entire body will benefit. Make sure to see your dentist regularly, as well, for professional check-up and cleaning with your hygienist.Don’t forget, the Bow Lane Dental team are open for business as usual and ready to treat you. We’re here to fix your teeth, get you out of pain and boost your immune system.Book your appointment here.