Winter weather can take a toll on more than your ability to stay toasty. Cold air, indoor heating, and seasonal habits can also be tough on your oral health. You may notice more discomfort in and around your mouth during the Winter months, even if you take good care of your smile. The good news is that most winter mouth issues are easy to manage with the right strategies. Here are some of the most common cold-weather mouth issues and how to protect your smile when temperatures drop.
Dry Mouth
When it comes to your mouth health, moisture—particularly from your saliva—is key. Unfortunately, the cold air outside and the central heating inside can both decrease moisture in the air.
This often leads to dry mouth, which can increase your risk for cavities and bad breath. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep saliva flowing. Sugar-free gum or lozenges can also stimulate saliva production, so they’re great to keep in your bag or pocket in a pinch.
Tooth Sensitivity
Winter air can also trigger sharp pain in sensitive teeth, especially when breathing through your mouth. This sensitivity usually comes from exposed dentin due to worn enamel, so using fluoride toothpaste made for sensitive teeth can be a lifesaver.
Avoiding very hot or cold foods can also reduce flare-ups. However, if sensitivity lingers or gets worse over time, it may be time to see your dentist to check for underlying issues.
Chapped Lips
Cold wind and dry air create the perfect storm for chapped lips. Unlike the rest of your skin, your lips don’t have oil glands, so they lose moisture quickly and become cracked or sore. Many people try to wet their lips by licking, but in the Winter, rapid drying can lead to further damage.
To protect them, keep a hydrating lip balm handy and drink plenty of water. You’ll be surprised at how a simple routine of reapplying balm throughout the day can keep your smile comfortable.
Mouth Breathing
Stuffy noses from colds or allergies often lead to mouth breathing, especially at night. This dries out your mouth and increases your risk for cavities. Using a humidifier in your bedroom can add moisture back into the air, while saline sprays or nasal rinses can provide relief from seasonal sniffles.
Winter mouth problems are common, but they don’t have to last all season. With these tips, you can keep your smile healthy even when the Winter winds howl. If you need help winterizing your smile, reach out to your dental team. They can help you find a solution that lasts until the sun shines again.
About the Practice
At Comal Dental, Dr. Haag and Dr. Hansen focus on keeping smiles healthy and comfortable year-round. Their warm, friendly team helps families prevent and manage common seasonal oral health concerns with ease. If you need a smile pick-me-up for the season, you’re in good hands. Call (830) 999-2492 to schedule an appointment with us or visit our website to see a full menu of services.