Don't forget your Smile :)

Keep your teeth on your priority list

Feeling Sick? Don’t Forget Your Smile 😷🦷

When Dr. Fallon isn’t feeling her best, there’s two simple habits that help her feel human again: brushing her teeth and eating healthy.

" The minty flavor toothpaste helps clear my sinuses and makes me feel a bit fresher." Dr.Fallon says. When you’ve got a cold or the flu, taking care of your body is key — and that includes your mouth! In fact, Dr. Fallon wants to remind everyone that when you are sick, taking care of your teeth is even more important.

Here are some easy ways to keep your smile healthy while you’re busy getting better:

🪥 Keep Things Clean (Including Your Toothbrush)

You already know to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze — just don’t forget about your toothbrush!

Cold and flu viruses can live on moist surfaces for up to 72 hours, so never share your toothbrush (especially when you’re sick — but honestly, ever).

Good news: you usually don’t need to toss your toothbrush after being sick. Unless your immune system is severely compromised, the chances of reinfecting yourself are very low. That said, if your brush is already 3–4 months old and looking a little rough… this might be its sign to retire.

When in doubt, throw it out!

🍬 Pick Sugar-Free Cough Drops

Cough drops can be lifesavers — but some are basically candy in disguise. Many contain sugar, which cavity-causing bacteria love.

“The more frequent the use of cough drops, the more sugar is in your mouth to feed the bacteria that can damage our teeth and gums. " Dr.Fallon states. Just pick a SUGAR-FREE brand instead.

🤢 After Vomiting, Swish First — Brush Later

If you’re dealing with a stomach bug, brushing your teeth right after vomiting might seem like a good idea… but it’s actually better to wait.

Vomiting coats your teeth in stomach acid, and brushing right away can spread that acid around and wear down enamel.

Instead:

1. Rinse your mouth with water

2. Or swish with a mix of water and 1 teaspoon of baking soda (basic buffer)

3. Wait about 30 minutes, then brush

This helps protect your teeth while things settle down.

💧 Drink Up to Avoid Dry Mouth

Staying hydrated is always important — but especially when you’re sick. Dry mouth isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also increase your risk for cavities.

Cold and flu meds like antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers can dry out your mouth, so keep sipping water. Sugar-free lozenges or candies can also help keep saliva flowing.

🥤 Choose Tooth-Friendly Drinks

When it comes to hydration, water is always the MVP.

Sports drinks can help replace electrolytes, but unless they’re sugar-free can increase your risk of cavities.

Craving something warm and cozy? Tea is a great option. Just try to skip adding sugar or lemon if you can. Sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria, and lemon is acidic — something to keep in mind once you’re back to feeling 100%.

💙 Take Care of Yourself — Head to Toe (and Tooth!)

When you’re sick, small routines like brushing your teeth can make a big difference. They help you feel fresh, comfortable, and one step closer to feeling like yourself again.

Rest up, stay hydrated, and don’t forget to show your smile a little love — even on your sick days.