How Should Your Dental Hygiene Change When You Get An Infection?

Have you ever noticed that things change in your mouth when you have a seemingly unrelated infection? While you might be concerned about your dental health if you notice unusual symptoms in your mouth while ill, there is not usually much to worry about.

When you have a viral or bacterial infection such as bronchitis, you might find that you develop small lesions within the mouth. Sometimes, this sort of discomfort is part of the infection process and, as long as you are caring for the infection, you probably do not need to worry.

However, it can be difficult to maintain appropriate dental hygiene when you are sick. You might find that your gums are more sensitive or that your throat is sore as the result of coughing or other issues.

How should you alter your dental hygiene as a result? Consider these tips:

1. Gargle With Warm Salt Water
   Although your symptoms will probably subside when the infection does, it is important that you maintain the health and balance of your mouth. Eliminating some of the bacteria in your mouth can go a long way. In addition to using your ordinary mouthwash if you use one, consider using warm salt water to gargle and spit, helping clean your tongue and throat.
2. Brush Your Tongue
   While it isn’t strictly necessary to brush your tongue under normal circumstances, it has some distinct benefits when you are sick. Your tongue is a place where bacteria and viruses gather when you are ill, so disrupting that process can be helpful. Likewise, even if you are not eating frequently during illness, you should still brush shortly after each meal.
3. Brush More Gently
   When you are ill, it might be a good time to get a new toothbrush. After all, your toothbrush is one place where bacteria can thrive. Over time, bristles can become harder and harsher. Many people forget to replace their toothbrush on a regular basis, but this is best done every year. If you have an automatic toothbrush with replaceable heads, you can do it even more often.

Over the course of an infection, any minor symptoms that you may have relating to your teeth or gums should go away with your illness. If you notice severe symptoms like bleeding, call a dentist. Likewise, if symptoms don’t subside, more serious health issues might be at work.

Community Dental Group is the dentist of choice in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Newbury Park. Call or email us today to learn more.