Keeping Your Mouth Healthy When You're Sick

The last thing you probably think about when you’re sick is your dental health, but you still need to keep your mouth clean to avoid dental health issues.

Besides brushing and flossing, what else should you remember to do when you’re not feeling well?

Your Toothbrush
Germs from the flu can live on surfaces for up to 72 hours. If you want to be extra safe, it may be a good idea to replace your toothbrush once you are feeling better.

Check the Cough Drops
Avoid buying cough drops that contain sugar. Because cough drops stay in our mouths for an extended amount of time, the sugar also stays in our mouths longer and can harm your teeth.

Drink Plenty of Water
A possible side-effect of medicine is dry mouth. Saliva is our bodies’ natural way of keeping our teeth clean, but, when there’s no saliva, germs can attack your teeth and gums. Drinking water will help clean away the germs from your mouth.

If you have any questions about the health of your gums or your dentist has suggested visiting a periodontist, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Parkes or Dr. Stewart in Jackson, MS. We are always welcoming new patients to our practice.