When the leaves change to bright orange and red colours and the temperature falls in the Ottawa area, we look forward to the snug atmosphere that autumn creates. Although we take out our best sweaters and drink warm beverages, there is another change taking place which is usually overlooked: the decrease in humidity. Even though indoor heating keeps us warm, it also causes dry mouth, or xerostomia, and this can result in discomfort and dental problems.

Saliva is important for our oral health since it serves as a natural protection against harmful bacteria; a reduction in its production leads to a higher risk of tooth decay and gum irritation. Fortunately, there are easy methods to keep your dental health in check as the colder weather comes.

Easy Fall Dental Maintenance

One of the main advantages of autumn is the great amount of fresh fruit and vegetables! Not only are local apples and pears tasty, but they also contain a good deal of fibre and water. With every crunchy bite you stimulate the production of saliva and this helps to clean your teeth naturally—what could be better than a delicious treat that is also good for your health?

When it comes to warm drinks, hot coffee and tea are typical items during the fall season, but it’s necessary to realise that caffeine can cause your body to lose water. In order to counter this effect, you should accompany each cup of coffee or tea with a glass of water. Adopting this habit will not only help to keep you hydrated but also contribute to your general oral health.

If you find that you wake up with a dry mouth or a sore throat, then why not operate a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom at night? This simple change can make a huge difference when the heating in Ottawa houses turns on, as it helps to avoid discomfort during sleep.

Select alcohol-free rinses since a number of mouthwashes contain alcohol and this can make mouth dryness worse; instead choose hydrating, alcohol-free types that help keep your oral tissues moist without the drying effect of alcohol.

The secret of Dr. Sheema’s is that if you find yourself waking up with a dry mouth even though you’ve been drinking water all day, you should mention it to your dentist; this may be a sign of breathing through your mouth while you’re asleep or could simply be a treatable side effect of certain medications.

While we enjoy the pleasant features of autumn—such as picking apples and having cozy evenings with herbal tea—it is important to notice the changes in our surroundings and the way they may impact our health. If you include these simple tips into your daily routine, you should be able to avoid dry mouth and be able to smile confidently during the lovely autumn in Ottawa. 

Keep yourself warm and in good health this season!