Help your smile weather the storm

Are you ready for winter weather? As the temperatures get colder, don't forget to maintain a healthy smile and talk to your dentist or physician if you experience any of the following health issues.

Oral health effects of colder temperatures

As temperatures drop, you may experience one or more of the following oral health issues.

Tooth sensitivity – Sensitive teeth can be caused by thinning tooth enamel, gum disease, exposed tooth roots, inflamed pulp and teeth grinding or clenching.

Dry mouth – Although dry winter air usually doesn't cause dry mouth, it can increase its severity by pulling moisture from your mouth. Dry mouth can lead to cavities, gum disease and a number of other oral health conditions.

Chapped lips – The lack of humidity during cold, dry winter days can lead to chapped lips. Staying hydrated, using a humidifier and regularly using lip balm with moisturizers like vitamin E, glycerin and shea butter can provide relief. Avoid lip balms with cooling ingredients such as menthol, camphor or phenol, as they can dry or irritate your lips.

Seasonal affective disorder

During dark, cold winter days, some people's mood shifts, making them feel depressed or anxious. If winter blues stick around for more than a few days, it could be a sign of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). People with anxiety or depression are at a higher risk for oral problems, including gum disease and tooth decay. Depression and anxiety symptoms, including those from SAD, can also cause cravings for sugary and high-carb foods that could lead to cavities. Make sure to get plenty of exercise and sunlight, eat a balanced diet and keep up with your oral health, even when you don't feel like it.

Stressful driving

In many areas of the U.S., drivers face freezing rain, icy conditions and even hazardous whiteouts from heavy snow. As a result, nearly 70% of drivers in the Midwest and Northeast are stressed out by wet, wintery weather. Stress can lead to an increase in oral health issues, including teeth grinding and clenching, chipped or cracked teeth and jaw pain.

You can reduce stress by staying home if you don't need to travel. However, if you drive in less-than-ideal weather, make sure your car is in good working order, slow down and take your time, minimize distractions while on the road and pack an emergency kit.