4 Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy When They Are Sick

Cold and flu season is in full swing, which means runny noses, coughs and sneezes are everywhere, especially in classrooms. Regardless of wearing masks, social distancing and cleaning protocols, there are still plenty of opportunities for kids to get sick. If your child does catch a bug, it can be easy to focus on their overall wellness; but don’t forget about their oral health! The mouth naturally carries large amounts of bacteria, so it’s a good idea to minimize bacteria where you can. It may be a while before they feel well enough to visit their pediatric dentist in Mesquite, so staying on top of their dental hygiene is a key part of helping them recover. Here are 4 ways to manage your child’s oral health and help them get well as soon as possible.

Brushing

Brushing your teeth when you’re sick is probably the last thing you’re thinking about, so you can rest assured that your child feels the same way, but it’s important to make sure their teeth are clean. It is highly unlikely that they’ll feel well enough to stand over the sink and brush like any other day, so you may consider bringing them their toothbrush with toothpaste, a cup of water to rinse with and a cup to spit into so it can be done from their bed. It might be a good idea for you to brush their teeth for them to make sure plaque and bacteria are properly removed.

Rinsing

If your child is vomiting, the acid from their stomach will have coated their teeth and softened their enamel. Rinsing with water or diluted mouthwash will help get rid of it. Brushing would spread the enamel-destroying acid around, so it’s best to have them rinse, wait 30 minutes, and then brush. Also, rinsing and gargling once a day with salt water will help kill germs in the throat and mouth.

Replacing Their Toothbrush

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that the flu virus can live on moist surfaces for 72 hours. So, once your child has gotten better, the best thing to do is to get rid of the toothbrush they were using. Even though they won’t reinfect themselves and may have built up an immunity to their illness, that’s not the case for other members of the household. Germs can travel, so getting rid of their toothbrush is safer for everyone.

Staying Hydrated

Dry mouth often accompanies illnesses and medications, so making sure your child stays hydrated is very important. Oral dryness can put a child’s mouth at risk for cavities, plus, it’s very uncomfortable. While sugary sports drinks or juices might be your son or daughter’s first choice, it’s better for their stomachs and their teeth to have them drink water.

According to the American Dental Association, brushing your child’s teeth and removing plaque and bacteria while they are sick will help them feel better. By following these tips, you can protect your child’s teeth and help them recover faster by keeping their smile healthy and clean.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, their team of doctors includes general dentists, pediatric dentists and more. With modern equipment, as well as dentists and staff who are committed to continued education, your child will receive high-quality dental care with a gentle touch. If it’s time for your child to visit the dentist, contact the office at (972) 331-5300, or visit the website for more information.