Coughs, colds and flu’s are usually indicators that the cold weather is starting to buckle in. As we all know, having a cold or flu has a tendency to make our every day lives feel miserable. As the symptoms begin to manifest, most people tend to reach for an over-the-counter medicine to try an ease the symptoms. Cough drops and cough medicines are usually the first “go to” relievers.
It is important to remember how some of the products that are meant to make us feel better can do serious harm to our teeth. Cough drops and cough syrups, even though they are sold in the medicine aisle, contain some of the highest sugar concentrations out there. Ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup and sucrose provide high concentrations of sugar on your teeth. Sugars break down to acids and ultimately attack the enamel on your teeth.
Many relievers also contain citric acid and antihistamine’s. Citric acid can wear down the enamel of your teeth.Antihistamine’s contain low pH levels and high acidity which will also contribute to tooth decay.
Finally, some cough and cold syrups contain alcohol. Alcohol can have a drying effect on the mouth. Your saliva naturally rinses the sugars from your mouth. With less saliva, sugars remain in your mouth leading to more risk of tooth decay.
How Can You Help Your Teeth?
1. Drink Lot’s of Water. Water helps rinse the sugars off your teeth. Plus staying hydrated will help with your cold.
2. Brush your teeth after taking any medicine
3. Try to take your medicine at meal times