Are Colds and Coughs Causing Cavities?

Colds and coughs are very common. You’re likely well aware that candy, soda and bad oral health care routines can cause cavities and decay. You probably haven’t thought twice about taking the cough candies or cough syrup you take to get relief from irritating cold symptoms. But have you ever thought about what they’re made of or how they can impact your teeth and gums?

“It has been found that certain syrup medications and candies can actually cause a variety of tooth issues,” says Sr. Maryam Adibfar, one of Toronto’s best dentists. “This can become a big problem especially if you take these medications and remedies for extended periods of time.”

When it comes to colds and coughs, the syrup medications that you can buy at your local drug store are often effective at combatting flu, cold and allergy symptoms. But these same health saviours are often high in acidity, low in pH levels and could be packed with sugar. “We often see medications higher in sugar to improve their taste,” says Dr. Adibfar. “While this makes it easier for our youngsters to stomach the medicine, it can wreak havoc on their teeth.”

High acidity, low pH levels and high sugar combine to erode the tooth’s enamel, which can quickly lead to cavities, sensitivity and other oral health problems. “We often see these medications taken before bed or naps without people brushing their teeth after ingesting them,” explains Dr. Adibfar. “This means the syrupy liquid remains on the delicate teeth for a long period of time, which increases the likelihood of oral health issues.”

How to Protect Your Teeth While Taking Medication: Colds and Coughs
We aren’t suggesting you suffer through a cold, flu or allergies without getting the relief you need. However, there are a few tips that will help make sure your teeth stay protected as you get your health back on track.

1. Colds and Coughs: Avoid Syrup Before Bed: We often recommend not taking syrupy medication right before dosing off for bed. “Your saliva production naturally slows down at night,” explains Dr. Adibfar. “This means the syrupy residue won’t rinse away naturally like it would during the day.”

If you can’t avoid taking this type of medication before bedtime, make sure you brush your teeth or rinse your mouth out with water to help wash away be syrupy residue.

2. Colds and Coughs: Food With a Side of Medication: We encourage you to take these types of medications with meals throughout the day. Chewing will naturally increase saliva production. This will help wash away the sugars and acids from your teeth.

“If you can’t have the medication with larger meals, try having a small snack like an apple or handful of granola,” says Dr. Adibfar.

3. Colds and Coughs: Getting Help: If you often reach for syrupy medications when your child has a flu or cold, we always recommend speaking to your trusted Toronto dentist about what you can do to protect their delicate teeth. “There may be additional actions you can take or aids like topical fluoride that will help keep their teeth healthy and strong,” says Dr. Adibfar.

The Bottom Line When it Comes to Colds and Coughs
These types of medications are very common to help make us feel better, but it’s important to understand they can cause trouble for your teeth unless you take the necessary steps. With the proper precautions and actions, you’ll be able to beat the cold and keep cavities at bay.

Next Steps
Do you have questions about how to keep your teeth healthy or want to schedule check-up, teeth cleaning or routine exam? Contact us directly!Our team looks forward to seeing you.

And don’t forget to follow Dr. Maryam Adibfar on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter for the latest dental tips, tricks and advice!

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