When you get sick, basic hygiene and self-care can feel like an impossible task. However, to ensure that you stay as healthy as possible, it's important to try your best to care for yourself. This includes optimizing oral health. In addition to regular dental cleanings throughout the year, consider some of the following tips for oral care when you're sick.

4 Tips for Oral Care When You're Sick

1. Prioritize Hydration

Dehydration can have serious side effects on all parts of our body, including oral health. When you're sick, hydration can help flush the pathogens out of your body and support the immune system. It can also counteract harmful oral side effects like dry mouth, which can increase your risk of gingivitis over time. Try to stick to water and herbal tea and avoid any sugar-laden beverages. 

2. Use Mouthwash

If you're experiencing some nausea, try not to brush your teeth right after. Instead, rinse your mouth out with water and/or mouthwash to help remove corrosive acid. About 15 minutes later, brush your teeth. This helps reduce the impact of the acid on your enamel, keeping your teeth strong. 

3. Brush Regularly

Although you might be facing waves of exhaustion that throw your sleep patterns into the wind, brushing your teeth twice daily is just as important as regular dental cleanings. Brushing your teeth will help remove the buildup of harmful bacteria and plaque from your teeth, so you don't have to deal with further issues down the line. Try your best to brush twice daily, for two minutes each.

4. Use Sugar-Free Medicine

Finally, if you're taking cold or flu medicine, try to find an option that doesn't contain any sugar. Check labels on cough drops, lozenges, or any other medication. 

You'd be surprised how many are laden with sugar, which may make them taste nicer but doesn't do any good for your oral care. Sugar can also cause an increase in phlegm thickness, which may lead to a worsening cough or congestion. Stick to sugar-free meds instead.

To help you maintain strong oral health, schedule regular dental cleanings with the professionals at Elizabeth A. Loseke, DDS, in Kearney, NE. Dr. Loseke is a friendly family dentist with over 20 years of experience providing quality dental care for patients of all ages. Whether you need general dentistry or are looking for some cosmetic care, Dr. Loseke is there to help with the latest advancements in dental technology, up-to-date procedures, and unbeatable customer service. To learn more about her business, visit the website, or call (308) 234-4564 to schedule a dentist appointment today.