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Your Riverside dentist would really like for you to take just a moment from whatever you’re doing, recognize that we are heading into flu season, and think about some very significant details that you really should know! Of course, there’s a very long list of other things you’d prefer to be thinking about or doing at the moment. However, with the many holidays and fun plans on the horizon, the last thing you want is to end up stuck sick in bed, so take some helpful hints seriously to protect your health, smile and all!

#1: It Can Make Your Teeth Hurt

If you have ever wondered why your teeth hurt when you have the flu, don’t assume that this viral infection is somehow damaging your dental tissue. Instead, your Riverside dentist wants you to recognize that the flu is an upper respiratory infection. It can cause serious congestion, which can lead to pressure that’s placed internally against your teeth. As congestion becomes more and more serious, your teeth may ache. While this is something you can ease with an over-the-counter pain reliever, remember that the discomfort could mean you have a cavity or underlying issue that needs to be checked. When you’re all better, come on in for a dental checkup!

#2: It’s Very Contagious!

Even if you have a very serious approach to keeping yourself from sharing germs with others (maybe you never drink after someone else, share bites of food, etc.), you might be overlooking the role your dental care at home may play in getting sick. Take the following into consideration for even more protection, suggests your Riverside dentist:

  • Stop sharing the same tube of toothpaste during flu season! When you run the tip along your brush, germs may collect.
  • Get very serious about cleaning your hands before hygiene sessions and keeping your brush, paste, and everything else separate from your spouse’s or your kids’ products.

#3: Flu Shots Don’t Work Immediately

If you’re a patient who gets a flu shot on an annual basis or who has even been thinking about it for this calendar year, remember that we have already entered October. You don’t want to procrastinate on this one if it’s in your plans because effectiveness requires about two weeks. Keep this in mind as you plan out your daily life!

Consider Health Tips From Your Riverside Dentist

Don’t forget that your dentist has your smile health and your best interests at heart! Take tips for flu prevention seriously for a relaxing, healthy season. Give us a call in Riverside, CA to schedule a consultation with your dentist. We are proud to serve patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.