Healthy Oral Hygiene Tips For a Sick Child | Lewisville Pediatric Dentist

Healthy Oral Hygiene Tips For a Sick Child | Lewisville Pediatric Dentist

PEDIATRIC DENTIST IN LEWISVILLE, TX
Pediatric Dentist 75067
Posted on April 15, 2023
Pediatric Dentist 75067

Have you ever struggled with helping your child maintain healthy oral hygiene habits when they’re feeling under the weather? When dealing with a fever, cough, or vomiting, your child’s oral health might be the last thing on your mind. Our team is here to help provide tips for keeping your child’s mouth clean and teeth healthy, especially when they’re sick. 

Brush and Floss

Regular brushing and flossing help prevent build-up of harmful bacteria in your child’s mouth, which helps keep their immune system focused on fighting a cold or the flu. If your child’s illness includes vomiting, their teeth are exposed to acids that can weaken them.Try encouraging your child to rinse thoroughly and brush their teeth to avoid this type of damage.

Hydrate

When your child is sick, water can help them stay hydrated, soothe a sore throat, and keep sinuses moist. In addition, congestion can cause mouth breathing, resulting in dry mouth. This lack of saliva can lead to increased risk of tooth decay. While sports drinks and ginger ale can help ease some symptoms, remember they contain sugar and can make the problem worse. Water should be your go-to to prevent dry mouth and congestion.

Be Aware of Sugary Medicine

Like sports drinks and soda, cough drops and cough syrups can contain high amounts of sugar. While sweeteners can make medicine more pleasant-tasting, they can also leave a residue on teeth and lead to decay. Look for sugar-free options when possible and have your child rinse well after taking any medicine containing sugar.

Disinfect Dental Appliances

If your child has a dental appliance such as a retainer, athletic mouth guard, or night guard, be sure it is cleaned thoroughly between uses. Contact our office for information on the type of cleanser appropriate for your child’s device. When your child is well again, replace their toothbrush to prevent reinfection. Even a clean toothbrush may retain some bacteria or other germs following use.

For more tips on keeping teeth healthy through an illness, contact our office.

Lewisville Kids Dentistry
Phone: (972) 436-9121
501 S Stemmons Fwy
Lewisville, TX 75067

Read Our Lewisville Pediatric Dental News

PEDIATRIC DENTIST in Lewisville, TX

5 Ways to Get Your...

September 15th 2023

For some parents, it can be challenging to get kids to practice at-home oral care unsupervised. However, the long-term benefits of an early start are worth the effort. Here are some tips to help you make oral health a fun part of your kid’s daily routine. 1. Let Them Choose Their Own Supplies Let your...
Read More

The Best Age to Get...

September 1st 2023

Braces can help create a straight, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Ideally, any corrections to the bite, jaw, or mouth structure should be performed during adolescence while the mouth is still forming. Here is what you need to know before your child begins treatment with braces. Does My Child Need Braces? You might be...
Read More

7 Experiences Every Child Should...

August 15th 2023

As you have probably come to realize, children grow up quickly — sometimes too quickly. Make sure you savor each precious moment by giving them the gift of shared experiences. These should be meaningful but do not need to be elaborate.  Here are seven things we suggest doing with your child before they reach age...
Read More