The changing seasons often bring a wave of sniffles and sneezes as viruses are on the move. This makes it challenging for kids to stay healthy as their immune systems are still developing, leaving them vulnerable to germs. Throughout the year, children may develop six to 10 colds, and many will get sick with the flu, especially during the winter months. Frequent handwashing, a balanced diet and plenty of sleep are a vital part of protecting your child from illness, but maintaining good oral health is just as important for their overall wellness.
The connection between oral and overall health
Taking care of your child’s teeth, gums and mouth goes beyond preventing cavities. The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body, and dental health can have a significant effect on the entire system. Growing research shows a link between chronic oral infections and a wide range of serious conditions, including respiratory illnesses, diabetes and heart disease, to name a few.
While the long-term consequences of poor mouth health may not emerge until adulthood, it could influence your child’s overall development and growth. For example, the pain and discomfort from untreated cavities might make it difficult for a child to sleep, chew certain foods or concentrate in school. Children may also experience anxiety and social isolation when dealing with self-esteem and confidence issues because of the appearance of their teeth.
Good oral health benefits kids in many ways. Taking care of your child’s teeth from the start will set the foundation for a healthy future.
How oral health impacts your child’s immunity
The mouth is full of mostly harmless bacteria, however, they may cause problems under certain conditions. Poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, can disrupt the balance of germs, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and other infections in the mouth.
When the body’s natural defenses constantly fight off infection in the mouth, it weakens the immune system, leaving less energy to defend against viruses and diseases.
Children with low immunity are more susceptible to frequent sicknesses, so when they do get sick, it may take longer to recover, causing them to miss school and other activities. It’s estimated that unplanned dental care results in an estimated 34 million hours of missed school annually for students across all grade levels.
While oral bacteria don’t directly cause body-wide illnesses, like colds, the flu or Covid-19, understanding this connection and establishing good dental habits will help your child have the best chance of staying healthy.
Sharing isn’t caring when it comes to oral bacteria
Living under the same roof means sharing more than just space – you also pass around a lot of bacteria from your mouth, which can cause dental problems if hygiene is neglected.
One study found that we share up to a third of our oral bacteria with the people in our household. This transmission occurs through spores lingering in the air and shared diets, creating similar environments in the mouth that encourage the growth of the same bacterial strains.
They also circulate through direct contact with another person’s saliva. Kissing, sharing utensils and taking bites from the same food can spread the germs that collect along the gumline and get stuck in your teeth.
These findings show how common – and easy – it is for viruses to be passed between family members and highlight why good dental health is crucial for everyone in the household.
Oral health tips to help your child stay well this cold and flu season
Cold and flu season is a tough time for kids – and parents – but by following these oral health tips, you’ll help keep your child’s smile healthy and immune system strong.
- Teach good habits for healthy teeth. It’s vital to show children how to care for their teeth and gums properly as oral hygiene plays an essential role in preventing infections that weaken the immune system. Encourage brushing twice a day, two minutes each time, with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove food particles and plaque – supervising if needed.
- Be a role model for oral health.Maintaining a healthy mouth is a key part of total wellness at any age, but children rely first on their parents and guardians to manage their dental care. Make oral hygiene a family activity by regularly brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist together. By setting an example for oral health, you’ll contribute to a stronger immune system for the entire family.
- Think twice before sharing food and drinks. Avoid sharing forks, spoons, cups and straws to minimize the spread of oral bacteria, even if everyone in your family is well. Children’s developing immune systems make them more susceptible to the harmful bacteria that cause cavities, gingivitis and other infections, like colds and the flu.
- Practice proper toothbrush care. Use separate toothbrushes for each family member to prevent the spread of germs. After brushing, thoroughly rinse toothbrushes with tap water after every use, storing them upright in a cup or holder to air dry faster and help kill bacteria. Try to make sure sick children keep their toothbrushes away from others to prevent accidental contact. When they’re feeling better, replace their toothbrush to prevent reinfection.
While you can’t protect your kids from all harmful germs and bacteria, especially during cold and flu season, these steps will go a long way in helping you and your loved ones maintain good oral – and overall – health.
Image: ID 52222246 | Oral Health © Kdshutterman | Dreamstime.com
Roosevelt Allen
Roosevelt Allen, DDS, MAGD, ABGD, is chief dental officer at United Concordia Dental in Camp Hill, Pa., where he leads the dental solutions partner’s oral and overall health efforts and oversees its professional affairs, dental directors, and clinical and dental policy.
