4 Winter Mouth Issues & How to Easily Manage Them

Do you sometimes experience mild discomfort in your smile during the winter season? While this time of year is known for spreading cheer and gift-giving, the dry and cold conditions can also be problematic for your oral health. If you want to experience more enjoyable holiday months, you’ll have to practice certain measures to keep your pearly whites comfortable. Read on to learn about four common winter mouth issues and tips on how to maintain a healthy and happy smile!

#1: Tooth Sensitivity

The cold months can sometimes be uncomfortable for your teeth, especially if they often react to extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. Even being outside in the chilly air can cause sensitivity in your smile, which may be an indication of an oral health issue that needs to be addressed, such as dental decay. To treat this sensation, you can try using desensitizing toothpaste. If your condition is more severe, then you should visit your dentist for proper treatment.

#2: Dry Mouth

Breathing through your nose can become more challenging in cold weather, meaning you may spend more time opening your mouth. The bad news is that this can end up drying out your oral cavity, which can introduce a host of problems for your teeth. Saliva production is extremely important for naturally washing away harmful bacteria and neutralizing acid byproducts. A dry mouth can result in germs and acids damaging your teeth or infecting your gum tissue later on. To avoid this, breathe through your nose as much as possible, and make sure to drink lots of water throughout the day!

#3: Jaw Pain

Whenever you’re stressed out or even walking in the freezing cold, you may end up clenching your teeth. While this might help you bear the extreme temperature, it can also place excessive pressure on your smile and cause your temporomandibular joint to strain. Make sure to do your best not to clench your teeth when outside in the cold, and try stress-relieving techniques like meditation and mindfulness to keep them safe.

#4: Chapped Lips

Another common winter mouth issue is chapped lips. This is typically due to the dry cold, which can cause your mouth to crack and cause some discomfort. To prevent this problem, simply moisturize your lips by drinking plenty of water, wearing lip balm, and using a humidifier when you sleep.

Although the cold season can be problematic for your oral health, it doesn’t mean you can’t have an enjoyable holiday. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll be able to keep your smile healthy and comfortable throughout these next few months!  

About the Author

Dr. Stephanie Lacquaniti received her dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and has over a decade of experience under her belt. She also regularly pursues continuing education to expand her skills and expertise. She offers a wide range of high-quality services, including checkups/cleanings, nightguards for bruxism, periodontal therapy, and fluoride treatments. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call her at 352-383-8121.