When your child is sick with a fever, cough, or cold, your focus naturally shifts to helping them feel better. However, it’s important not to overlook their oral health during illness. Maintaining good oral hygiene while they are under the weather can help prevent additional problems. At Sunrise Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend these tips for keeping your child’s mouth healthy when they are sick.
Continue Brushing and Flossing
Even when your child is sick, it’s essential to keep up with their regular brushing and flossing routine. Daily brushing and flossing remove harmful bacteria and germs from the mouth, supporting their immune system in fighting off the illness. If your child is vomiting, the acid from their stomach can damage their teeth. After they’ve vomited, encourage them to rinse their mouth with water to remove the acids and brush their teeth gently to protect their enamel.
Be Cautious of Sugary Medicines
Many over-the-counter medicines, such as cough syrups or lozenges, contain high amounts of sugar to make them more palatable. Unfortunately, this sugar can stick to your child’s teeth and contribute to tooth decay. Look for sugar-free alternatives whenever possible, and encourage your child to rinse their mouth with water after taking any sugary medication. This will help protect their teeth and maintain better oral hygiene during sickness.
Keep Your Child Hydrated
When your child is sick, staying hydrated is crucial. Water helps soothe sore throats, clears out congestion, and keeps their body functioning properly. Additionally, staying hydrated prevents dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay. Offer your child plenty of water to drink throughout the day to help with both hydration and oral health.
Disinfect Dental Appliances
If your child wears a dental appliance, such as a retainer, night guard, or mouth guard, make sure it is cleaned properly between uses. Bacteria can accumulate on dental appliances, so it’s important to sanitize them thoroughly. If you’re unsure what cleanser to use for your child’s appliance, contact our office for recommendations.
Keep Toothbrushes Clean
Once your child is feeling better, it’s a good idea to replace their toothbrush. Even if the toothbrush appears clean, it may still contain germs or bacteria from their illness. To prevent reinfection, throw away the old toothbrush and replace it with a new one. You can also disinfect the new toothbrush with mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide, but make sure to rinse it thoroughly before use.
Should You Keep a Dental Appointment?
If your child is recovering from illness, they can usually keep their dental appointment unless they are still contagious, have a fever, or are experiencing severe congestion. If your child is feeling unwell, it’s best to reschedule the appointment for a later date.
For more tips on maintaining your child’s oral health during illness, or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Belmont, contact Sunrise Pediatric Dentistry today!