From summer's humid embrace to winter's chilly whisper, your smile faces Raleigh's changing seasons alongside you. While you're adapting your wardrobe and activities to the weather outside, your oral health is quietly responding too.
Those refreshing iced drinks during sweltering Carolina summers, the dry indoor heating during crisp autumn nights, and even springtime allergies that have you breathing through your mouth can all leave their mark on your dental wellness.
Seasonal Oral Health Challenges in Raleigh
Each season presents different challenges for your teeth and gums. Here are some seasonal challenges and what you can do to maintain your oral health:
Summer
During the summer, you’re more likely to consume sugary or acidic beverages or suffer from dehydration due to the extreme humidity. To offset these issues, drink plenty of water to maintain saliva flow and rinse away bacteria. Also, drinking from a straw can keep sugar and acid from coming into contact with your teeth.
Fall
Many of us enjoy pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween candy in the fall. We might also suffer from seasonal allergies. Returning to school can cause stress and lead to teeth grinding or jaw clenching. We recommend enjoying sweet treats in moderation and rinsing your mouth after eating sugar to remedy these concerns. You can rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash for a dry mouth caused by allergy medication. Finally, consider a mouthguard to protect your teeth from bruxism.
Winter
Once it gets cold outside, the dry indoor heat can reduce saliva production, and the cold weather can increase tooth sensitivity. Also, holiday treats can lead to tooth decay. To combat these issues, you can use a humidifier to prevent dry mouth and desensitizing toothpaste to alleviate discomfort. Also, brush your teeth after each meal and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Spring
When spring arrives, it brings flowers and seasonal allergies. This can lead to dry mouth and increased sinus pressure. Also, springtime brings outdoor activities that can lead to injuries. Be sure to manage your allergies with the proper medication and rinse your sinuses with saline to reduce the pressure on your teeth. When playing sports, it’s best to wear a mouthguard.
Questions about Your Oral Health in Raleigh, NC?
To learn more about maintaining healthy teeth and gums, contact our experienced dental team! At Cameron Village Dentistry, we strive to help every patient achieve the best oral health possible.
You can contact our dental office at (919) 821-2454.