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February Flu Season and Oral Hygiene: Protecting Your Mouth When You’re Sick

Feb 21, 2025

Flu season is in full swing, and while you may be focused on staying warm and getting enough rest, your oral health deserves just as much attention. When you're sick, your mouth can become more vulnerable to bacteria, dryness, and irritation, making proper oral hygiene more important than ever. At RADIUS, we believe in a holistic approach to health, and that includes caring for your teeth and gums even when you're under the weather. Here’s how you can protect your smile during flu season and recover with your oral health intact.

How the Flu Affects Your Oral Health

When you have the flu, several factors can impact your oral health:

  1. Dry Mouth from Dehydration and Medication
    Fever, congestion, and certain medications can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is essential for washing away bacteria and keeping your mouth balanced. Without it, plaque buildup increases, and your risk of cavities rises.

  2. Increased Sugar Exposure from Cough Drops and Fluids
    Many cough drops, syrups, and electrolyte drinks contain sugar, which can linger on your teeth and fuel bacteria that cause decay.

  3. Stomach Acid from Vomiting
    If the flu brings nausea and vomiting, stomach acids can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity and potential long-term damage.

  4. Neglecting Oral Hygiene Due to Fatigue
    When you’re feeling weak, brushing and flossing might not be your top priority. However, skipping oral care can allow bacteria to thrive, leading to bad breath and other oral health issues.

Flu Season Oral Care Tips

To protect your mouth during flu season, follow these simple steps:

1. Keep Your Mouth Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial for overall recovery and oral health. Staying hydrated helps maintain saliva production, which naturally cleanses your teeth and gums. If your mouth feels especially dry, sucking on sugar-free lozenges or chewing xylitol gum can stimulate saliva flow.

2. Brush Gently But Thoroughly

Brushing while sick is just as important as when you're healthy. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush like the RADIUS Source Toothbrush, which features plant-based, replaceable bristles that are gentle on sensitive gums and enamel. Brushing at least twice a day will help remove bacteria and reduce the risk of cavities.

3. Choose Flu-Fighting Toothpaste

Your toothpaste can play a significant role in keeping your mouth fresh and healthy while you recover. The RADIUS Organic Immunity Toothpaste is infused with natural ingredients like Elderberry and Hydroxyapatite , known for their immune-supporting properties. It also contains soothing coconut oil to combat dryness and irritation.

4. Rinse After Vomiting, But Wait to Brush

If you experience vomiting, don’t brush your teeth immediately. Stomach acid can soften enamel, and brushing too soon can cause further damage. Instead, rinse your mouth with water, followed by a fluoride-free, natural toothpaste after 30 minutes to neutralize acids.

5. Floss to Prevent Plaque Build-Up

When you’re sick, you might not feel like flossing, but it’s essential to remove food particles and bacteria from between your teeth. RADIUS Vegan Sponge Floss is a gentle and effective option that expands to clean more surface area, making flossing easier when you’re not feeling your best.

6. Replace Your Toothbrush After Recovery

Once you start feeling better, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush. Germs can linger on the bristles, increasing the risk of reinfection. The RADIUS Source Toothbrush has a replaceable head, so you can swap out the bristles without throwing away the entire handle, making it an eco-friendly and hygienic choice.

7. Maintain a Balanced Diet

Eating nutritious foods while sick helps your body recover faster and keeps your teeth strong. Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges and strawberries can support gum health, while calcium-rich foods like almonds and leafy greens help strengthen enamel.

The Takeaway

Flu season can take a toll on your body, but with the right oral care routine, you can protect your smile while you recover. Staying hydrated, brushing and flossing consistently, and using natural, high-quality oral care products. Remember, taking care of your oral health is an essential part of overall wellness, so don’t let flu season take a toll on your teeth!

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your recovery includes a healthy, happy smile. Stay well, stay warm, and keep your oral care routine strong—your teeth will thank you!

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