Caring for Your Mouth in Cooler Temperatures

As fall and winter move in, it is important to remember to take care of your mouth. Cooler temperatures can affect the body in different ways, and the mouth is no exception. The air is much drier during the fall and winter months because the humidity level drops significantly. Without moisture in the air, any exposed skin on the body can become dry, cracked, and irritated. Because the face is typically exposed at all times, the lips are extremely susceptible to feeling the effects of cold, dry temperatures. While we may not experience many bitterly cold days here in Georgia, there are ways to ensure that your mouth stays healthy and protected throughout fall and winter.

Chapped lips are perhaps the most common irritation of winter. Exposure to wind, cold temperatures, and the sun creates the perfect environment for lips to become chapped. The skin on the lips is much more delicate than the skin on the body because it is very thin. Keeping your lips protected is very important throughout the entire year, but perhaps the most noticeably during cold weather. Applying a daily lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher regularly throughout the day is important. It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to hydrate your skin.

Cold sores are also a common complaint of colder weather. Many people find that the hustle and bustle of the holidays bring about stress, and stress has been directly linked to causing oral breakouts. If a cold sore does occur, it is important to keep it hydrated with a medicated lip ointment and to avoid touching it so as not to spread the infection.

It is also recommended that you watch your diet. Many people tend to over-indulge during the colder months with holiday celebrations. If you notice that you are having canker sores in your mouth, it is probably from eating too many spicy or acidic foods and beverages (think spiced eggnog, sausage balls, cinnamon treats, etc.).

Colder weather often brings people together for fellowship and celebrations. By taking steps to care for your mouth during colder temperatures, you can help to ensure that your mouth will not damper your fun. Contact Family & Cosmetic Dental Care with any questions or concerns you have this winter.

Posted by Mitul Patel DDS, Family & Cosmetic Dental Care
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