Prepare for cold temperatures

Maxwell O’Neill discusses how you can look after your oral health over winter.

The drier air, whipping winds and freezing temperatures of the winter months are just ahead of us. As we know, viral infections such as colds and flu are more common during the winter. Heated indoor environments with limited ventilation make it easier for germs to spread. Furthermore, the immune system becomes supressed in cold weather as blood flow is focused on the core of the body.

Naturally, the temperature and humidity of our immediate surroundings affect the body’s core temperature, yet age, infection, the intake of medication and even telling lies can also play a part. Since the outbreak of coronavirus, both dental professionals and patients have become familiar with temperature screening protocols to prevent the transmission of Covid-19. But how do cold temperatures influence the nation’s oral health?

The temperature of the mouth varies considerably over a 24-hour period. Simply breathing and routine activities such as speaking, sleeping, eating, drinking and exercising cause the temperature within the oral cavity to fluctuate.