Oral hygiene and disease can therefore be affected by climate and or environmental conditions. Fluctuations with temperature and humidity also elicited changes in the level of moisture in your mouth: thus drying out. Dry mouth also known as xerostomia affects saliva production and since saliva contains acids and helps wash food particles this is a disadvantage.
This reduction can cause complications such as tooth decay and gum diseases as has been posted by various researchers.
Further, hot or cold temperatures can worsen dental problems or contribute to the development of new problems, for instance, dental sensitization. For more specific recommendations for dealing with these issues, it is advised to consult a dentist Hollywood, CA.
How Does Humidity Influence Your Oral Health?
Warm and moist conditions typical of tropical and subtropical regions promote bacterial and fungal growth in the mouth. This can result in oral infection and the development of unsavory breath. On the other hand, low humidity conditions such as those characteristic of arid or desert climates dry up the mouth and will lead to like conditions.
In order to avoid these side effects, one should always brush his teeth thoroughly, and use products that should keep the salivary gland secretion level high, for example, saliva moistening agents and mouthwash.
What is the impact of air quality and pollution?
Pollution and lack of fresh air are bad for our teeth and gums. These substances may lead to inflammation and high sensitivity of tissues of the mouth and may result in gingivitis or oral ulcers. Since these particles can cause the above problems it is advisable to brush and floss teeth in areas that have high levels of pollution.
Moreover, the color of foods and drinks may change after some time depending on the level of pollution. It is especially useful when a lot of particulate matter is in the air since the water flosser provides a kind of rinsing to lessen the effects of the particles on the teeth.
How to Prevent Cavities and Other Dental Diseases Connected with Hot and Cold Temperatures?
Heat or cold causes discomfort and takes a toll on other oral health problems one might be suffering from. For instance, hot drinks can intensify sensitive teeth while cold drinks are also uncomfortable for those who have a cracked or worn-out tooth or filling.
To reduce the risk of getting sensitive teeth you should avoid taking foods and drinks which are very hot and cold.
Moreover, you can reduce the discomfort using the toothpaste that is recommended for sensitive teeth. In climates with large changes in the ambient temperature, it may be useful to regularly use a humidifier so as to prevent the relative humidity levels indoors from varying greatly.
What Preventive Measure Can Be Taken?
Most people leave their dental health regimen compromised by the environment, but this should not be the case. Table 12-2 lists preventive care behaviors, such as brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and flossing to clear your teeth from plaque and, consequently, food.
One must also not forget the importance of routine dental check-ups since your dentist may advise you depending on your environment. Keeping moisture in your mouth and the rest of your body is crucial, and since dryness can be a side effect of fluoride use, you should always take a lot of water.
Also, if you have special concerns about the climate or environment you prefer or you think is best suited for your dentures, you should consult your dentist for further recommendations and advice.
Conclusion
The simplest way of avoiding oral health problems relative to climate and environmental factors is constant good oral hygiene and being conscious of the effects of climate and environmental factors on dental health.
Some of the areas that relate to the dental implications of teeth and gums include dry mouth, humidity, air quality, and temperature variations and by addressing them, you will be safe from any implications. Through proper dental care and regular consumption of water, alongside practicing correct oral hygiene care, it is possible to overcome the adverse impact of these environmental factors on dental health.
