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

Children get 6-8 colds per year on average and most of them happen during the winter. It might seem like their oral care could slip this time of year when they aren’t feeling well, but with your help, their teeth and gums can stay in great condition.

Imagine having to schedule an emergency dentist visit for your child while they are sick because of a cavity. It can be avoided so they are never in that position. Keep reading for some pointers on children’s oral care during cold-and-flu season.

Stay Hydrated

It’s always important for children to get plenty of fluids, but especially during sickness. When their nose is stopped up, they are going to breathe through their mouth. That causes dry mouth, which makes it easier for bacteria to grow and trigger tooth decay. Frequently drinking water is the best defense against this.

Switch Out Their Toothbrush

Even after a child has recovered from illness, bacteria can remain on their toothbrush. Other people in the household won’t have an immunity to their disease, so it’s important to keep the contagious toothbrush away. If you aren’t able to replace it, then you can place it in a cup of hot water to kill the germs.

Gargle with Salt Water

If your child is old enough to gargle, definitely have them gargle daily with salt water. It kills germs in their throat and mouth and helps them heal faster. This is especially important if they already have a sore throat due to an illness.

Verify Their Teeth Are Getting Brushed

When your child is feeling bad, they may try to skip putting in the effort to brush their teeth. You can bring them a cup of water to rinse and a spit cup so they don’t have to go to the bathroom. Even on sick days, make sure they brush morning and night.

Working to minimize bacteria accumulation in your child’s mouth while they are sick is important for their oral health and to aid in their recovery. It’s no fun being sick, and you’ll want to help them get better without having to force them to go to the dentist for emergency treatment in the meantime.

About the Practice

At Orange Place Family Dentistry, we were proud to be named a Cleveland Top Dentist in 2020. Dr. Jerome Faist and Dr. Jed Koops appreciate the opportunity to get to know each one of their patients. Along with our team, the dentists work to make sure all appointments are informative, productive, and comfortable. When you need a dentist for your children, know that our fun and friendly dental staff at Orange Place Family Dentistry focuses on patient education so decisions for effective cavity prevention can be made at home. If your child is under the weather this flu season, bring them in for an exam and cleaning when they are feeling better so we can make sure their teeth are healthy. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (216) 464-2448.

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