How to Stay Healthy this Cold and Flu Season

Did you know? The mouth is, in fact, connected to the body! So as cold and flu season approaches, we wanted to share a few tips on how to keep your body – and your mouth – healthy.

cold and flu season
photo credit: @kellysikkema accessed 10/22/19 via CC0

Keep Your Hands Clean

Wash your hands frequently! And do your best to keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth, as those parts of the body are where viruses like to enter.

Eat Healthy Foods

Our diet is important to all aspects of life, but especially in terms of keeping those pesky viruses at bay. Eating a balanced, healthy diet full of proper vitamins and nutrients will help to fight any viruses we might be battling.

A healthy diet is also related to healthy teeth. Staying away from added sugars and carbs can not only improve overall health, but also keep cavities at bay.

Visit the Doctor and Dentist Regularly

By getting routine checkups and well visits at both the doctor and dentist, you can be assured you are free from any unknown infections, and that your body is in prime shape for cold and flu season.

Chronic problems like gum disease can be directly related to other systemic problems like diabetes and heart disease. Gum disease is chronic inflammation that resonates through the entire body. If you are already immunocompromised, it’s important to keep up on your oral health so your body is able to fight off infection.

Exercise

Stay active, even during the cold winter months. This could be as simple as going out for a walk or finding an exercise video online. Any movement is better than none!

Stay Hydrated

Water keeps all of our organs functioning and balanced. It also increases our saliva, which in turn can help to buffer acids in the mouth.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Our body needs to be properly rested to work, so do your best to get at least seven hours of quality sleep every night. Be sure to brush and floss before you hit the sack!

If you do happen to catch a nasty bug, get some rest, drink extra fluids and do your best not to spread those germs!


Request an Appointment


Family Dentist Tree is a family-oriented dental office located in Rochester, MN. Whether you need a cleaning, filling, crown, root canal, treatment for gum disease, or teeth whitening, we are here to help you with all your dental needs. We serve all ages, and our offerings include family dental care and senior plans. Request an appointment online or call us at 507-288-1188.