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Four Tips for Keeping Your Mouth Healthy during Cold and Flu Season
Posted on 5/15/2026 by Lakewood Dental Arts
Feeling under the weather is never fun, and the misery of cold and flu season can really take a toll. But did you know that being sick can also impact your oral care routine and the health of your mouth? When you’re fighting off those pesky viruses, it's easy to let good habits slip, but taking care of your teeth and gums is more important than ever. Here are four simple tips to help you maintain a healthy mouth even when you're not feeling your best.
Tip 1: Stay Hydrated to Fight Dry Mouth
One of the most common side effects of being sick is dehydration. Whether it's from a fever, a stuffy nose that forces you to breathe through your mouth, or just not feeling up to drinking enough fluids, dehydration can lead to dry mouth. Saliva is your mouth's natural defense against bacteria and helps to neutralize acids that can cause cavities. When you're dehydrated, your mouth doesn't produce enough saliva, leaving you more vulnerable to tooth decay and other oral health problems.
To combat dry mouth, make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as these can feed the bacteria in your mouth and worsen the problem. Sugar-free lozenges or gum can also help stimulate saliva production.
Tip 2: Rinse After Vomiting
Unfortunately, vomiting is a common symptom of many illnesses. When you vomit, stomach acid comes into contact with your teeth. This acid can erode tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity.
The best thing to do after vomiting is to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Wait about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Brushing immediately can actually spread the acid around and further damage your enamel. A fluoride mouthwash can also help remineralize the teeth.
Tip 3: Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Even when you're feeling sick, it's crucial to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don't forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
Consider replacing your toothbrush after you recover from your illness. Your toothbrush can harbor germs and bacteria, which could potentially reinfect you or make others sick.
Tip 4: Choose Sugar-Free Medications and Cough Drops
Many over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrups and cough drops, contain high levels of sugar. While these may provide temporary relief, the sugar can contribute to tooth decay.
Whenever possible, choose sugar-free versions of these medications. If you must use sugary medications, try to take them with meals and rinse your mouth with water afterward. If you frequently use cough drops, opt for sugar-free varieties or those sweetened with xylitol, a sugar alcohol that can actually help prevent cavities.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your mouth healthy and happy during cold and flu season. Remember, taking care of your oral health is an important part of overall wellness!
About Lakewood Dental Arts | Dentist Lakewood CA Our focus is helping our patients to maintain healthy and beautiful smiles while providing a comfortable and friendly environment with each visit. Call today! Lakewood Dental Arts, 5555 Del Amo Blvd, Lakewood, CA 90713-2307 / (562) 384-1091 / lakewooddentalarts.com / 5/28/2026 / Tags: dentist Lakewood CA /
Feeling under the weather is never fun, and the misery of cold and flu season can really take a toll. But did you know that being sick can also impact your oral care routine and the health of your mouth? When you’re fighting off those pesky viruses, it's easy to let good habits slip, but taking care of your teeth and gums is more important than ever. Here are four simple tips to help you maintain a healthy mouth even when you're not feeling your best.