Now that winter has come, you’re likely aware that it’s also cold and flu season. On average, adults typically get two to four colds while children get around six to eight this time of the year. If you have a little one, then you’re probably making sure they’re taking the right medicines and resting plenty when they feel under the weather. However, since the mouth is full of natural bacteria, neglecting oral hygiene can be detrimental to their smile. Read on to learn four ways you can maintain their pearly whites this season!
#1: Brush Their Pearly Whites
If your child is sick with a cold or flu, it can be challenging to get them to practice good oral hygiene. That said, you must continue to help them brush their teeth regularly. If they’re feeling too sick to get out of bed, you don’t have to force them to the bathroom to clean their smile. Instead, bring them a cup to spit in and a second one of water to rinse with. Have them brush their teeth at least twice daily, even if they don’t feel too well.
#2: Replace Their Toothbrush
Bacteria and germs can end up remaining on your little one’s toothbrush even after they’ve recovered from their cold or flu. Although they might have grown immune to their disease, the other household members haven’t. For this reason, you’ll want to throw out your child’s old toothbrush and purchase a new one for them. If this isn’t possible or there’s an urgent situation, you can try boiling their toothbrush in hot water to eliminate most of the bacteria. While your child is ill, be sure to keep their toothbrush away from others to avoid spreading the germs.
#3: Encourage Them to Stay Hydrated
Drinking lots of water is crucial during sickness, especially if your child ends up developing a stuffy nose. When this happens, they’ll typically resort to breathing through their mouth, resulting in dry mouth. This can cause a halt in their saliva production, which is essential for naturally washing away harmful bacteria. By keeping them hydrated, you’ll help your child recover faster and prevent germs from collecting and growing.
#4: Have Them Gargle Salt Water
Have you taught your little one how to gargle? If they’re able to do it themselves, then be sure to encourage them to do this with salt water. Gargling this mixture once a day can help eliminate bacteria in the mouth and throat. This will also help them heal quicker and alleviate a sore throat if they have one.
You can help preserve your child’s oral health even during the cold and flu season. Keep these few tips in mind, and they should be able to keep a healthy and happy smile in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Alison Garrad earned her dental doctorate from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. She’s also a proud member of several prominent groups like the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association. She offers a wide range of high-quality services, including children’s checkups/cleanings, dental sealants, fluoride treatment, and gum disease therapy. If you’d like to know more about preserving your child’s teeth during a cold or the flu, visit her website or call 903-455-6075.
