Oral Health: Sneaky Tips For Preventing Dryness

Posted October 24, 2018

Are you recognizing that with our cooler temps we have been enjoying, you’re also starting to notice serious dryness within your family? Perhaps you’ve been complaining about dry hands, while you notice your kiddo’s lips are on the verge of cracking. What’s going on, what you should you be doing differently, and should you see us for a dental checkup? Our Dallas, TX team is happy to report that there are usually some sneaky reasons this is going on and it’s usually stuff you can address on your own. As for whether you need to see our team for oral health help? If you feel you need reinforcement, then of course! To get started, however, consider easy tips.

Tip: Add Lotion After Hand Washing

Have you been having your entire family get a bit (okay, a lot) more serious about hand washing now that we’re getting closer to cold and flu season? If so, then good for you! Washing before and after caring for your oral health is a very smart idea, as it prevents you from ingesting germs and from later sharing them (Remember: you’re in contact with saliva as you brush and floss to avoid cavities!). However, all of that washing can dry out your skin, so our team encourages you to think about getting serious with your lotion application, too, when possible. Adding moisture back into your skin will help your family avoid uncomfortable, cracked winter hands.

Tip: Address Lip Dryness With Multiple Steps

First, ask yourself what might be going on that is causing yourself or your child to end up with dry lips. Are you running the central heat because of our cooler temps? This can be drying. Are you or your child dealing with sniffles? Whether it’s allergies, a cold, etc., this will cause you to breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, thereby drying oral tissues and your lips, too! So, you know what’s probably causing this oral health issue but you want to know how to solve it. No problem:

• First, quickly get into the habit of having your family members use lip balm to keep smiles moist. It’s a good idea to apply it after brushing and flossing and before bed, too.
• Next, determine whether everyone is getting enough water to drink. Even though we’re out of the warmer weather, this is still key to optimal health and smile health!
• Next, of course, is to consider using a humidifier by the bed at night if central heat is too drying.
• Last but certainly not least: Address upper respiratory congestion, so breathing returns to normal and lip dryness disappears.
• If all else fails, come on in!

Address Pre-Winter Dryness With Our Oral Health Tips

Head into fall with a comfortable, healthy smile! If you have questions about dryness associated with your oral health and you cannot seem to address it, see us as soon as you can for a visit! Schedule a visit with your Dallas, TX children’s dentist, Dr. Marr at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda by calling 214-321-4880. We proudly welcome patients from Dallas, TX, and all surrounding communities, including Casa Linda, Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Forest Hills, East Dallas, Mesquite, Garland, Richardson, and more.