Virginia has a climate that can go from blazing hot to freezing cold in no time, but did you know that these swinging temperatures can actually affect your dental health? Understanding how the seasons affect your teeth and how to adjust your dental care routine each season will help keep your smile bright and healthy. Let’s find out more about how each season affects oral health, including practical tips for dental care year-round.
Winter: Cold Weather & Dental Sensitivity
Virginia’s winters can get quite chilly, with cold air and sudden temperature changes causing tooth sensitivity and even slight pain. This is especially true if you already have thin enamel or gum recession. Cold weather can also dry out the mouth, reduce saliva production, and disrupt the mouth’s microbiome.
Winter Dental Tips
- Use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth.
- Breathe through your nose to decrease dryness in the mouth and nasal cavities.
- Stay hydrated to stabilize saliva production that fights off bacteria
- Minimize the use of whitening products.
Spring: Allergy Season & Oral Health
Those beautiful Virginia springs are often full of pollen floating around, triggering allergy symptoms. Allergy symptoms can include dry mouth, sinus pressure and cloggage, and inflammation, all of which affect oral health. Additionally, dry mouth, which can be caused by allergy medications, drops saliva production, allowing bacteria to grow and increasing the risk of cavities.
Spring Dental Tips
- Add in a mouthwash made specifically for dry mouth or one that reduces acidity.
- Brush regularly to remove any post-nasal drip, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria in the mouth
- If you need a lozenge, make sure it’s sugar-free to avoid tooth decay
- Visit the dental office for a routine checkup
Summer: Heat, Humidity, & the Risks of Dehydration
The South is known for its hot, sultry summers, and Virginia is no exception. All that heat and humidity can lead to dehydration without proper water intake. Dehydration reduces saliva production, which increases the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Summer Dental Tips
- Stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion and stabilize saliva production
- Limit sugary and acidic drinks, as they are the biggest contributors to tooth decay and can heighten sensitivity
- Wear protective mouth gear during recreational activities to prevent potential trauma
Fall: Preparing for Holiday Sweets & Cold Weather
Fall finally breaks the sweltering heat of summer, and brings with it plenty of sweet seasonal treats as the holiday season gets underway.
Fall Dental Tips
- There are plenty of sugar-filled holidays in the fall, so be careful not to consume too many sugary treats, and always brush 30 minutes after eating.
- Use a fluoride or hydroxyapatite toothpaste to strengthen the tooth enamel.
- Skip the hard candies, which can crack or chip teeth.
- Visit the dentist for your second cleaning of the year
Year-Round Habits for a Healthy Smile
No matter the season, certain habits contribute to a healthier smile in every climate. Here are some year-round dental tips for Virginia residents:
- Brush and floss twice every day
- Use a humidifier to combat dry indoor air
- Wear lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sun and cold
- Visit the dentist twice each year
Protect your teeth and maintain your best oral health throughout the entire year by caring for your teeth properly at home and receiving care from a qualified dental professional, like Dr. Lam at Seneca Smiles in Great Falls. If you need a great dental team in northeastern VA or the DC metro, schedule an appointment with us by calling 571-556-6139 or by requesting an appointment online.
