Cold and flu season is tough on little ones—coughing, sneezing, feeling droopy—but did you know it can also take a toll on their teeth? From sugary cough syrups to dry mouth caused by congestion, being sick can create the perfect environment for cavities. So, what can you do? Continue reading to see some great tips to help your child’s smile stay strong all season long.
Avoid Sugary Medicine
If you’ve never checked the label on your child’s cough syrup, you might want to! Many cold and flu medications—especially cough syrups and throat lozenges—are packed with sugar to make them taste better. Unfortunately, that sugar can linger on your child’s teeth, feeding cavity-causing bacteria.
Try to look for sugar-free alternatives, but if they’re just not in stock, have your child rinse their mouth after taking their medicine.
Drink Tons of Water
When kids are congested, they often breathe through their mouths, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is important because it helps wash away bacteria, so when the spit runs out it means a higher risk of cavities.
To avoid this, encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Humidifiers also work to increase the moisture in the air which can curb dry mouth. If all else fails, sugar-free treats made with xylitol can get the saliva flowing again.
Swap Out Their Toothbrush
Toothbrushes are major germ factories that can hold on to bacteria for a long time. If your child catches a bug, it’s best to swap their brush for a new one. After each brush, they should also be sure to store it properly in a place where it can air dry so it doesn’t stay moist.
Bacteria love to multiply on damp surfaces, so keeping the brush isolated from everyone else’s and keeping it dry will keep the germs down. And once your child is feeling better, go ahead and throw the “sick brush” away to prevent reinfection.
Beware of Acidic Drinks
When the going gets rough, it can be tempting for your child to default to fluids like sports drinks or fruit juices with vitamin C like orange juice. However, these drinks are high in acidity and sugar, making them particularly bad for tooth enamel.
Using a straw when enjoying these drinks can mitigate the damage, but it’s also important to sip them in moderation.
Being sick is never fun, but with a few small adjustments, you can protect your child’s teeth while they recover. By watching out for hidden sugars, keeping them hydrated, and helping them continue their oral hygiene routines, you can ensure their smile stays strong all flu season long.
About the Author
Dr. Michael C. Byars is a friendly dentist with a doctorate from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. With state-of-the-art training and dental technology, he ensures that every patient, big or small, gets the kind and compassionate treatment they need. Call (816) 781-8222 to schedule an appointment for your child at Michael C. Byars, DDS or visit our website to learn more.