As Australia’s local Dentist, Pacific Smiles Dental has over 110 centres to allow convenient access to the dental services you need.
Published on May 19, 2025.
Last reviewed on May 19, 2025
by Dr Ren Sun.
The weather is cooling down, which means cold and flu season is just around the corner. While we anticipate sore throats, sniffly noses and body aches, it’s worth considering how seasonal sickness affects our oral health too. The good news is that even when you’re not feeling the best, there are low-effort ways to care for your mouth and minimise discomfort while you hug the tissue box. Whether you’re tucked up in bed with your favourite binge watch, or just feeling a little run down, here are some gentle tips to keep your smile healthy through the chilly season.
1. Cough drops can be sneaky
Lozenges can be a relief when your throat is battling an infection, but some contain sugar that feeds bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to plaque and tooth decay.
TIP: Choose sugar-free lozenges or use a throat spray to reduce the contact on your enamel and target the treatment where you need it most. You can also try a throat gargle to help ease your symptoms.
2. Dry air + stuffy nose = dry mouth
It’s hard to breathe through your nose when it’s blocked! Mouth breathing is our only choice and can result in reduced saliva. We need saliva to help protect our teeth and avoid decay. Think about using a decongestant to help unblock your nose and sip water regularly to help with dry mouth and overall hydration.
TIP: Water is your best friend when you’re unwell. Sip regularly to keep hydrated.
3. Stomach flu and your mouth
If you’re sick in the stomach, you might experience some vomiting or nausea. While incredibly important for digestion, stomach acid is harsh on tooth enamel and can cause decay over time.
TIP: Rinse your mouth immediately after vomiting and try to sip some water to keep hydrated. It’s important to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after vomiting to avoid further damage.
4. Replace your toothbrush
Once you have recovered, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush, especially if you had a bacterial infection as germs can linger on your brush and you could potentially get re-infected.
TIP: We recommend replacing your toothbrush every 4 months, even if you manage to keep germs away!
5. Visit your dentist for a check-up and clean
It’s important to visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and clean. After recovery from a bad infection, it’s a good idea to make an appointment to ensure there was no lasting damage to your teeth.
TIP: We recommend waiting until you are feeling better before attending any appointments to avoid spreading germs.
Our top tips:
- Choose sugar free lozenges or medications.
- Drink lots of water.
- Rinse your mouth immediately after vomiting but wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth.
- Replace your toothbrush after you have been sick.
- Maintain your 6 monthly check-up and clean with your dentist.
How we can help
Most Pacific Smiles Dental centres are open early, late and on weekends and with our online booking tool, you can book from anywhere in under two minutes. We’re here to support you in balancing your health with your busy life. Prioritising your well-being in a way that works for you is what truly matters, and we’re here to help every step of the way.
If you’ve noticed any changes in your teeth or gums, especially if you have been sick, book an appointment. Your dentist will work with you to create a personalised plan to keep on top of your oral health.
Sources:
https://ada.org.au/policy-statement-2-2-2-diet-nutrition
Persistence of Group A β-Hemolytic Streptococci in Toothbrushes and Removable Orthodontic Appliances Following Treatment of Pharyngotonsillitis (1998); Itzhak Brook, MD, MSc; Alan E. Gober, MD; JAMA Otolaryngology 1998;124(9):993-995; American Medial Association https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/220892
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-nasal-drip
