If you’ve spent a winter in Iowa, you already know it’s not for the faint of heart. The snow, the ice, and the frigid wind that somehow finds its way through every layer can be brutal. But did you know that all this winter weather can be just as tough on your teeth as it is on your commute?
At Northpark Dental, we see it every season: winter brings its own set of challenges for your smile. Here’s a quick list created by our Urbandale, IA, dentists on how to care for your smile during the winter months.
Cold Air + Sensitive Teeth = Ouch!
That icy gust you feel when you step outside? Your teeth feel it, too! Cold air can sneak into tiny cracks in your enamel or hit exposed dentin, leaving you with a sharp zing of sensitivity.
To help mitigate this, we recommend using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to form a protective barrier and block tiny pores in the dentin that lead to your tooth’s nerves. We also recommend brushing gently, as aggressive brushing can wear down enamel and cause further sensitivity.
Winter Comfort Foods: Sweet, Sticky, and Sneaky
Who doesn’t love indulging in hot cocoa, peppermint bark, and gooey cinnamon rolls during chilly Iowa winters? We can all agree that winter just wouldn’t be the same without some of these seasonal treats. But sweets like these can cling to your teeth and invite cavities to the party.
Our Urbandale dentists recommend enjoying your holiday favorites (life’s too short not to), but follow up with a quick rinse of water or brush when you can. Your teeth will thank you come spring when you’re cavity-free!
Chapped Lips and…Chapped Teeth?
It’s not just your skin that gets dry in the winter. Low humidity and constant heating indoors can reduce saliva flow, leaving your mouth feeling like the Sahara. Less saliva also means more risk of bacteria sticking around because the saliva doesn’t wash away food debris and other clingy organisms.
To stay hydrated, keep a water bottle handy, and maybe swap out one of those extra chai lattes for plain ol’ H₂O.
Don’t Let Winter Knock You Down (Literally)
Winter brings about all sorts of fun activities, like skiing, skating, and sledding. Plus, icy sidewalks mean more slips and falls this time of year. And unfortunately, we see our fair share of chipped or cracked teeth from winter accidents. Our advice is to please remember to take it slow, wear good shoes, and wear a mouthguard to protect your pearly whites when being active. However, if the worst happens, please call us right away for emergency dentistry in Urbandale, IA.
Keep Your Smile Strong This Winter: Book Your Dental Checkup Today
Iowa winters can be rough, but your teeth don’t have to suffer. With a little extra care and our trusted dentists in Urbandale, you can keep your smile healthy until the tulips bloom again.
Schedule your winter checkup with Northpark Dental today. We’re here to help keep those pearly whites shining bright, even in the snow!