When your child is sick, it’s easy to focus on their fever, cough, or upset stomach, and brushing their teeth may feel like the last priority. However, keeping your child’s mouth clean during an illness is essential for their overall health. At Olney Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help you protect your child’s oral health even when they’re under the weather. Here are some key tips for keeping your child’s teeth healthy during sickness.

1. Keep Brushing and Flossing

Even when your child isn’t feeling well, it’s important to maintain regular brushing and flossing habits. Proper oral hygiene helps prevent harmful bacteria from building up in their mouth, allowing their immune system to focus on fighting the illness. If your child has been vomiting, their teeth may be exposed to stomach acids, which can weaken tooth enamel.

• After vomiting: Encourage your child to rinse their mouth with water to remove acids.
• Brush gently: Once they’re able, help them brush their teeth to avoid any damage from acid buildup.

Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent dental problems, even during an illness.

2. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key when your child is sick. Water helps soothe a sore throat, keeps sinuses moist, and prevents dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, especially if they’re running a fever or experiencing congestion.

• Hydrate often: Water not only aids in hydration but also helps to wash away any lingering bacteria or sugars in the mouth.
• Combat dry mouth: If your child has trouble drinking enough water, consider offering ice chips or small sips throughout the day.

3. Avoid Sugary Medicines

Many over-the-counter cough syrups and throat lozenges contain sugar to improve flavor. However, sugary substances can leave behind a sticky residue on your child’s teeth, promoting tooth decay.

• Look for sugar-free options: If possible, opt for sugar-free cough drops or syrups.
• Rinse after medication: Encourage your child to rinse their mouth with water after taking medicine that contains sugar to minimize the risk of cavities.

4. Disinfect Dental Appliances

If your child wears a dental appliance such as a retainer, night guard, or mouth guard, it’s essential to keep it clean during their illness. Bacteria can accumulate on dental devices, especially if your child is sick.

• Clean dental devices thoroughly: Be sure to disinfect any dental appliances between uses to prevent germs from spreading.
• Consult with us: Contact Olney Pediatric Dentistry for recommendations on the proper cleaning solutions for your child’s dental appliances.

5. Replace Their Toothbrush After Recovery

Once your child is feeling better, it’s a good idea to replace their toothbrush. Even though it may look clean, their old toothbrush could still carry germs or bacteria from the illness, potentially leading to reinfection.

• Get a new toothbrush: Replace the old one to ensure your child’s oral hygiene routine starts fresh.

Protect Your Child’s Smile, Even When They’re Sick

By following these simple steps, you can help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums, even while they’re sick. If you have any questions or need more advice on managing your child’s dental health during an illness, feel free to contact Olney Pediatric Dentistry. We’re here to help!