The Hidden Connection Between Winter Colds, the Flu and Your Oral Health

As the temperature drops and winter takes hold, it’s not just our immune systems that can feel the strain, our mouths can too. Cold and flu season often brings sniffles, sore throats and tiredness, but few people realise that these illnesses can also have a surprising impact on oral health.

At Hermitage Dental Practice, we’re here to help you keep your smile healthy all year round — even when you’re feeling under the weather.

How Winter Illnesses Affect Your Mouth

When you’re unwell, your focus naturally shifts to recovery, but common symptoms and medications can create the perfect conditions for dental problems to develop. Here’s how:

1. Dry Mouth from Decongestants and Cough Medicines

Cold and flu remedies often contain antihistamines or decongestants that reduce saliva flow, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and neutralising harmful acids — without it, you’re at higher risk of decay and bad breath.

Tip: Sip water regularly, chew sugar-free gum, and avoid sugary cough drops or syrups wherever possible.

2. Sugar in Medicines and Cough Syrups

Many over-the-counter cough syrups and throat lozenges contain sugar to make them more palatable. Unfortunately, this can coat your teeth and feed decay-causing bacteria, especially if you’re taking them at night.

Tip: Look for sugar-free alternatives where available, and rinse your mouth with water after each dose. Avoid brushing immediately afterwards, as the acids may temporarily soften your enamel.

3. Mouth Ulcers and Irritation

A weakened immune system or a runny nose that forces mouth breathing can lead to mouth ulcers or general soreness. These can make eating and brushing uncomfortable.

Tip: Use a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush with gentle pressure, and avoid acidic or spicy foods until your mouth heals.

4. Neglecting Oral Care When You’re Ill

When you’re resting in bed, brushing might not be a top priority, but it’s still important. Bacteria thrive when we skip brushing, increasing the risk of gum inflammation and bad breath.

Tip: Even if you only manage one gentle brush a day when unwell, it’s worth doing. Keeping your mouth clean can also help you recover faster and feel fresher.

5. Replace Your Toothbrush After Illness

Once you’ve recovered from a cold or flu, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush or brush head. Bacteria can linger on bristles, potentially reintroducing infection.

Tip: If you use an electric toothbrush, change the head after any illness, and every three months as a general rule.

Keep Hydrated and Maintain Healthy Habits

When you have a cold or the flu, staying hydrated helps your whole body recover, and it also supports saliva production. Try warm water with lemon (and rinse afterwards to protect enamel) or sugar-free herbal teas.

Maintaining your regular hygiene routine, even at a gentler pace, keeps your mouth cleaner and more comfortable while your immune system does the rest.

Feeling Under the Weather? We Can Help

Winter illnesses are common, but they don’t have to take a toll on your smile.

If you’ve been unwell and have noticed sensitivity, dryness, or bleeding gums, book a dental health review or hygiene appointment at Hermitage Dental Practice.

Feeling under the weather? Don’t forget your mouth our team can help you restore your oral health after winter illness.