Simple Winter Oral Care Tips with a Medicaid Dentist

Many people often experience severe toothaches as the winter months approach. The freezing temperature can have an adverse effect on their teeth, especially if they are sensitive. Some of them even complain of having chapped lips and cold sores. Others cannot resist the temptation of indulging in cakes and sweets during the festive season. However, they often forget to brush their teeth properly. As a result, they start to develop plaque buildup and cavities in their teeth. Most of them fail to realize they must maintain proper oral healthcare even in winter months. It is just as important as taking extra care of their hair and skin.

Visit a reliable Medicaid dentist

Dentists suggest people with Medicaid insurance should keep in mind the following winter oral healthcare tips:

• They should regularly brush their teeth twice a daily but not overdo it,
• Those with sensitive teeth should start using a soft-bristle toothbrush instead of a hard one,
• People having sensitive teeth should even change to a toothpaste which caters to this condition,
• They need to clean their toothbrush after brushing to prevent bacterial exposure,
• They should rinse their mouth with salt water or fluoride mouthwash after brushing,
• They should not consume too much of hot cocoa or chocolate drinks as it results in tooth decay,
• Limit the consumption of food items having a high sugar, salt, and acid content,
• They should increase their water intake during winter to remove food particles in their teeth after meals,
• People should use their nose to breathe over their mouths to avoid the cold air from harming their teeth,
• Teenagers and children should wear mouth guards to avoid tooth injuries when playing sports in winter,
• They should visit their Medicaid dentist for a semi-annual dental health checkup.

Is it necessary to use mouthwash immediately after brushing?

Mouthwash is an antiseptic liquid which people use after rinsing off excess food particles in their teeth. It kills the bacteria present in their mouth, prevents plaque buildup and bad breath. However, it is only effective after they properly brush and floss their teeth. It is not a substitute for these basic oral healthcare measures. The correct way for them to use a mouthwash is as follows:

• They need to first brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste and then use dental floss,
• They should then take three to five teaspoons of mouthwash in a plastic cup,
• Empty the cup in their mouths, swish, gargle and then spit it out, and
• They should never swallow the mouthwash under any circumstances.

People can easily avoid severe winter toothaches by visiting their Medicaid dentist and maintaining certain oral healthcare tips. These tips include brushing their teeth properly with a good toothpaste and soft bristle toothbrush. They can even use a mouthwash or rinse their mouths with saltwater. Moreover, they even remember to clean their toothbrush after brushing. They should regulate their consumption of hot chocolate drinks and sugary food items. However, they should drink more water to stay hydrated. When playing sports in winter, they should always wear a mouth guard to prevent tooth injuries.