Cold and flu season is upon us, and as we are nearing its peak months, it’s more important than ever to take care of your little one’s oral health. With all the coughing and sneezing, dental hygiene may be the last thing parents have energy for. However, this is not the time to let up on your child’s oral hygiene routine.
Here are four simple ways to maintain your child’s good oral health this cold and flu season.
1. Continue Their Oral Hygiene Routine As Normal
Even when your child comes down with the flu or cold, ensure that they still brush and floss as per their normal routine. This will help to prevent cavities and other dental problems. They’ll also feel better and rejuvenated by getting rid of oral bacteria.
2. Ensure They Stay Hydrated
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids as it will help prevent dry mouth. You’ll want to avoid dry mouth at all costs, as it can increase the risk of tooth decay and cause oral discomfort. Drinking water will help with saliva production and make sure your child’s mouth is staying moist.
3. Watch Their Sugar Intake
Comforting your little one with sweets and desserts will only hurt their oral health. Let them drink water instead of sugary beverages and provide them with sugar-free cough drops. Tablet-form cough medicine is encouraged over sugar-packed cough syrups.
4. Swish and Spit Instead of Brushing
When your child vomits, it might be your first instinct to have them brush their teeth, but we advise against it. This is because when vomiting, stomach acids come in contact with the teeth and cover them. Brushing immediately will rub these acids over the teeth and gum tissues. Instead, have them swish and spit with water or a diluted mouth rinse and then wait for about 20-30 minutes before brushing their teeth.
Check In With Your Calgary Children’s Dentist
While the above tips will help you care for your child’s oral health, they do not replace an appointment with Dr. Sam and our pediatric dental professionals. Schedule your child’s dental appointment with us today and ensure they maintain good oral health all year round.
At Happy Trails Children Dentistry, we care about our patient’s health and safety and their families. We have strict COVID-19 precautions, safety, and control measures at our office such as social distancing and traffic control, frequent disinfection of high-traffic areas and surfaces, a sanitizing booth, and require all parents and patients (above 2 years) to wear a mask within our facility. With these measures in place, you can feel comfortable and confident bringing your child in to check up on their oral health.
Contact us today to experience a safe and satisfying visit with our children’s dentist in Calgary. Make sure to also follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for more tips and tricks on oral health!