As the temperature drops and winter sets in, our bodies—and especially our mouths—can react to the cold in uncomfortable ways. If you’re currently wearing braces, winter can present a few extra challenges, from chapped lips to dry mouth. But don’t worry—at Beecroft Orthodontics, we’re here to help you maintain your oral health throughout the chilly season.
Let’s dive into some tips to keep your smile healthy and your braces in great shape as you brave the winter weather.
Common Winter Oral Health Challenges
1. Chapped Lips
Cold winds and low humidity levels are notorious for drying out your skin, and your lips are often the first to suffer. When you’re wearing braces, it can feel like the metal brackets and wires are contributing to the irritation. Constantly licking your lips to soothe the dryness only makes the problem worse.
Solution: Carry a lip balm with you at all times. Look for one that contains SPF and hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil. Applying lip balm regularly, especially before heading outdoors, creates a protective barrier that seals in moisture.
2. Dry Mouth
Winter air is drier, and central heating systems don’t help. For those wearing braces, dry mouth can lead to discomfort, increased plaque buildup, and even bad breath. Additionally, wearing braces already requires more meticulous oral hygiene, and dry mouth exacerbates the challenges of keeping your teeth and gums clean.
Solution: Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain moisture in your mouth. If you’re prone to dry mouth, chewing sugar-free gum or using a humidifier in your home can help. This keeps your mouth from drying out, ensuring that your orthodontic treatment stays on track without any added discomfort.
3. Sensitive Teeth
Cold weather can trigger tooth sensitivity, which is already a concern for some people undergoing orthodontic treatment. Cold air, cold drinks, and even hot drinks can cause sharp, uncomfortable sensations in your teeth.
Solution: Use toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. In addition, try to limit exposure to extreme temperature changes—use a scarf to cover your mouth when stepping out into the cold, and avoid consuming foods or beverages that are too hot or too cold.
How to Care for Your Braces in Winter
1. Don’t Skip Your Oral Hygiene Routine
With the holidays and seasonal festivities, it can be tempting to slack on your oral care routine. However, keeping up with your brushing and flossing is more critical than ever during winter, especially when you’re wearing braces. Winter foods like holiday candies, hot cocoa, and other sweet treats can cause more plaque buildup around your braces.
Make sure to brush after every meal, use an interdental brush to clean around brackets, and floss daily. This will help keep your braces clean and your teeth healthy throughout the season.
2. Choose Braces-Friendly Winter Treats
As much as you might crave crunchy snacks or sticky treats during the colder months, it’s important to protect your braces from damage. Hard candies, caramel, and other holiday indulgences can break brackets or wires, setting your orthodontic treatment back.
Opt for softer treats like mashed potatoes, soups, and soft cookies. These options are not only safe for your braces but can also keep you warm and cozy during the colder months.
3. Schedule Your Winter Check-ups
Winter can get busy with holiday travel and celebrations, but don’t forget to stay on top of your orthodontic appointments. Regular check-ups ensure your braces are adjusted properly and that any potential issues are caught early. At Beecroft Orthodontics, we make it easy to book convenient appointments so you can stay on track with your treatment even during the holiday season.
Keep Your Smile Bright All Winter Long
Winter weather may bring new challenges, but with the right care, your braces won’t stand in the way of maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Stay hydrated, protect your lips, and be mindful of your oral hygiene routine to keep your orthodontic treatment on track through the colder months.
Don’t let winter slow down your progress. Schedule your next appointment with Beecroft Orthodontics today and keep your smile shining all season long!