Winter is right around the corner, and each day is getting colder here in St. John’s. As we head into the chillier months, it’s the perfect time to spread some cheer (and a bit of our oral health wisdom) with our Holiday & Winter Oral Care Guide.
WINTER ORAL HEALTH CHALLENGES & TIPS
Here at Avalon Dental, we’re getting giddy with the holidays quickly approaching! While the season is full of fun and excitement, it also brings a few oral health challenges, so we’re sharing some easy ways to stay ahead of them.
- Increased sugar and acidic foods: The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads… Holidays in Newfoundland are full of delicious food, homemade treats, hot drinks, and the occasional festive cocktail.
- Be a bit mindful of your sugar intake, brush and floss (or at least rinse) after meals and sticky treats, and try to choose healthier options when grazing the holiday potluck.
- Hot and cold sensitivity: Whether you’re taking in the Christmas lights at Bowring Park or sipping hot chocolate while wandering the MUN Botanical Garden, cold air and hot drinks can make sensitive teeth flare up.
- Before heading out, use a sensitivity toothpaste like Sensodyne Rapid Relief or Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief. Brush gently, and avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes afterward so the toothpaste can work its own holiday magic!
- Dry mouth: When the weather outside is frightful, our cozy indoor heating is delightful, but it can dry you out quickly. With Newfoundland’s cold, damp winters and flu-season medications in the mix, it’s common to notice your hands, lips, and your mouth feeling drier than usual.
- To help stimulate saliva, try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free lozenges, which can also be soothing if you’re feeling under the weather.
- Holiday schedule changes: The holiday season can be hectic, and it’s easy for brushing and flossing routines to get interrupted. Travel, late-night gatherings, and busy family schedules can also make it harder to get to regular dental appointments. Try to stick to your usual oral care routine as much as possible, keep travel-sized toothbrushes and floss handy, and book any checkups or treatments early to avoid the seasonal rush.
WINTER TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND SEASONAL ORAL CARE
Notice your teeth feeling extra sensitive in the chilly St. John’s air? Cold weather, hot drinks, worn fillings, or exposed dentin can all make teeth react more than usual. Other common causes include gum disease, aggressive brushing, and tooth whitening treatments.
Minor enamel cracks (craze lines) are often harmless, but larger cracks should be checked by a dental professional at Avalon Dental. Winter is also cold and flu season, and sinus congestion can sometimes mimic tooth pain, so consult your healthcare provider if you notice facial pressure or tooth pain from sinus issues.
Tips to Keep Your Smile Comfortable
Brush gently twice a day with a soft toothbrush, floss regularly, and use a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne Rapid Relief, and reduce brushing with whitening toothpaste as regularly. Limit sugary or acidic drinks and wait at least 30 minutes after hot or cold beverages before brushing.
Following these steps can help keep your teeth comfy and holiday-ready all winter long. Our team here at Avalon Dental is here to help if sensitivity continues.
HYDRATION & DRY MOUTH PREVENTION
Winter in St. John’s can leave your mouth feeling dry thanks to indoor heating, cold weather, and even cold or flu medications. Staying hydrated and keeping your saliva flowing helps protect your teeth and gums.
Tips for a Comfortable Mouth
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dryness.
- Use a humidifier indoors to add moisture to dry air.
- Chew sugar-free gum or use sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva.
Keeping your mouth hydrated and saliva active can help prevent discomfort and keep your smile healthy all winter long. Avalon Dental is here to offer guidance if dry mouth persists.
YEAR-END DENTAL INSURANCE REMINDER
As much as we’re all excited for the holidays, don’t forget to make the most of your dental benefits before December 31. Book any cleanings or treatments early to ensure you use your coverage and avoid the holiday rush.
