News

The weather is cooling down, which means cold and flu season is just around the corner. While we anticipate sore throats, sniffly noses and body aches, it’s worth considering how seasonal sickness affects our oral health too. The good news is that even when you’re not feeling the best, there are low-effort ways to care for your mouth and minimise discomfort while you hug the tissue box. Whether you’re tucked up in bed with your favourite binge watch, or just feeling a little run down, here are some gentle tips to keep your smile healthy through the chilly season.

1. Cough drops can be sneaky
Lozenges can be a relief when your throat is battling an infection, but some contain sugar that feeds bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to plaque and tooth decay.
TIP: Choose sugar-free lozenges or use a throat spray to reduce the contact on your enamel and target the treatment where you need it most. You can also try a throat gargle to help ease your symptoms.

2. Dry air + stuffy nose = dry mouth
It’s hard to breathe through your nose when it’s blocked! Mouth breathing is our only choice and can result in reduced saliva. We need saliva to help protect our teeth and avoid decay. Think about using a decongestant to help unblock your nose and sip water regularly to help with dry mouth and overall hydration.
TIP: Water is your best friend when you’re unwell. Sip regularly to keep hydrated.

3. Stomach flu and your mouth
If you’re sick in the stomach, you might experience some vomiting or nausea. While incredibly important for digestion, stomach acid is harsh on tooth enamel and can cause decay over time.
TIP: Rinse your mouth immediately after vomiting and try to sip some water to keep hydrated. It’s important to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after vomiting to avoid further damage.

4. Replace your toothbrush
Once you have recovered, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush, especially if you had a bacterial infection as germs can linger on your brush and you could potentially get re-infected.
TIP: We recommend replacing your toothbrush every 4 months, even if you manage to keep germs away!

5. Visit your dentist for a check-up and clean
It’s important to visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and clean. After recovery from a bad infection, it’s a good idea to make an appointment to ensure there was no lasting damage to your teeth.
TIP: We recommend waiting until you are feeling better before attending any appointments to avoid spreading germs.

Our top tips:

1. Choose sugar free lozenges or medications.
2. Drink lots of water.
3. Rinse your mouth immediately after vomiting but wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth.
4. Replace your toothbrush after you have been sick.
5. Maintain your 6 monthly check-up and clean with your dentist.

How we can help

Most nib Dental centres are open early, late and on weekends and with our online booking tool, you can book from anywhere in under two minutes. We’re here to support you in balancing your health with your busy life. Prioritising your well-being in a way that works for you is what truly matters, and we’re here to help every step of the way. 

If you’ve noticed any changes in your teeth or gums, especially if you have been sick, book an appointment. Your dentist will work with you to create a personalised plan to keep on top of your oral health. 

Sources:

https://ada.org.au/policy-statement-2-2-2-diet-nutrition

https://selfservice.ada.org.au/getattachment/Your-Dental-Health/Resources-for-Professionals/Resources-for-Younger-Adults-18-30/Eating-disorders-protecting-your-oral-health/ADA_OHP_Factsheets_NEDC_eating-disorders-protecting-your-oral-health.pdf.aspx

Persistence of Group A β-Hemolytic Streptococci in Toothbrushes and Removable Orthodontic Appliances Following Treatment of Pharyngotonsillitis (1998); Itzhak Brook, MD, MSc; Alan E. Gober, MD; JAMA Otolaryngology 1998;124(9):993-995; American Medial Association https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/220892

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/post-nasal-drip

 

Managing asthma with medication is key to keeping symptoms under control, but it could also impact your oral health in ways you might not expect. While it’s important for asthma medication to reach your airways, it’s also necessary to clear it from your mouth to protect your oral health. With a few simple steps, you can help protect your teeth and gums while continuing to manage your asthma effectively.

Inhalers can decrease saliva production and cause a dry mouth, which is not only uncomfortable but can also increase the risk of tooth decay. Saliva protects teeth by washing away bits of food, neutralising acids, and removing harmful bacteria.

  Tip: When using a puffer, always rinse your mouth afterwards and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Inhaled corticosteroids, often found in puffers, can affect the immune system and increase the risk of oral thrush. Also known as candidiasis, oral thrush occurs due to the overgrowth of the naturally occurring yeast, Candida albicans. This fungal infection is diagnosed with a swab test and symptoms include white patches in the mouth that can be painful or uncomfortable. Your dentist can treat thrush with medications, such as lozenges, tablets or mouthwashes.

  Tip: Use a spacer device when using your inhaler to reduce the side effects of the medications within your mouth.

Studies have shown there is an association between asthma and periodontal disease¹. Further studies are needed to make conclusions, but early findings suggests that dental treatment may improve asthma symptoms². One study showed that regular 6-month dental scaling helped to reduce immune reactions that causes gingivitis, improved quality of life and responsiveness to asthma treatment³.

  Tip: Visit your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and clean.

If you’ve been prescribed asthma medication, it’s important to keep using it as directed. These treatments play a key role in keeping symptoms under control and helping you breathe easier and live well. While some medications may cause side effects like dry mouth, these can usually be managed with the oral care habits listed above. Your doctor can also assist with managing asthma treatment side effects. If you notice any changes in your mouth or teeth, speak to your dentist – it only takes 2 minutes to book online.

Sources:

https://www.teeth.org.au/asthma

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-thrush/symptoms-causes/syc-20353533

¹Tamiya H, Abe M, Nagase T, Mitani A. The Link between Periodontal Disease and Asthma: How Do These Two Diseases Affect Each Other? J Clin Med. 2023 Oct 25;12(21):6747. doi: 10.3390/jcm12216747. PMID: 37959214; PMCID: PMC10650117.

²Enomoto A., Lee A.D., Shimoide T., Takada Y., Kakiuchi Y., Tabuchi T. Is discontinuation of dental treatment related to exacerbation of systemic medical diseases in Japan? Br. Dent. J. 2023 doi: 10.1038/s41415-023-5690-3

³Nelwan SC, Nugraha RA, Endaryanto A, Dewi F, Nuraini P, Tedjosasongko U, Utomo DH. Effect of scaling and root planing on level of immunoglobulin E and immunoglobulin G4 in children with gingivitis and house-dust mite allergy: A pilot randomised controlled trial. Singapore Dent J. 2019 Dec;39(1):21-31. doi: 10.1142/S2214607519500020. Epub 2020 Feb 14. PMID: 32054426

 

Endometriosis isn’t just a reproductive condition, it can also cause inflammation throughout the body. Some research¹ suggests this inflammation may contribute to changes in oral health, potentially increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth sensitivity, or jaw pain.

 

The effects of endometriosis on your oral health

Tooth and gum sensitivity: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly higher levels of estrogen, are common in people with endometriosis². Rapidly changing hormone levels can make gums bleed more and be more sensitive to brushing.

Gum disease and inflammation: One of the most common oral health concerns for people with endometriosis is gum disease. The same chronic inflammation that comes with endometriosis can also make you more prone to gum issues³ like gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions cause inflammation in the mouth, leading to swollen and bleeding gums. So, if you’ve noticed your gums bleeding when you brush or floss, it might be a sign that the inflammation is also affecting your oral health.

Jaw pain and teeth grinding: Endometriosis can cause ongoing pain and stress, which often leads to tension in the jaw. Many people with endometriosis also deal with Temporomandibular Joint⁴ (TMJ) disorders, which can cause discomfort, clicking sounds and pain when opening or closing the mouth. Teeth grinding (or bruxism) is another common issue that can wear down your tooth enamel, making your teeth sensitive and even causing cracks or breaks.

Dry mouth: The medications often used to manage endometriosis, like painkillers and hormonal treatments, can sometimes cause dry mouth. Saliva plays a big role in protecting your teeth by neutralising acids and preventing decay. So, when there’s less saliva, it can increase your risk of cavities, gum disease and bad breath.

Increased risk of Sjögren’s syndrome: Research suggests that people with endometriosis may have a higher risk of developing Sjögren’s syndrome⁵, an autoimmune condition that affects moisture-producing glands in the body. This can lead to severe dry mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and oral discomfort. If you have endometriosis and experience persistent dry mouth, it’s important to let your dentist know so they can help manage your symptoms and protect your oral health.

 

Minimise the effects of endometriosis on your oral health

90% of Australian women know hormones can impact dental health, yet over 7 million skip regular dental checkups*

 

While endometriosis is a complex condition, maintaining good oral health can help reduce the risk of further complications.

• Regular dental visits: these are key to keeping gum disease and tooth decay away. Your dentist can spot early signs of gingivitis or cavities and offer treatments like professional cleanings and fluoride treatments to protect your teeth.
• Protective mouthguards: if you’re dealing with jaw pain or teeth grinding, your dentist can assess your condition and recommend a custom mouthguard to prevent further damage. Nightguards can help protect your teeth from bruxism and relieve pressure on your jaw.
• Saliva stimulation: your dentist can recommend a saliva-stimulating diet or treatments and suggest products like mouthwashes designed for dry mouth to keep your mouth moist.
• A gentler oral care routine: if you’re dealing with sensitivity or inflammation, your dentist can suggest a gentler oral care routine and recommend products designed for sensitive teeth and gums, so you can maintain a healthy smile without discomfort.

If you have endometriosis and notice changes in your oral health, it’s important not to ignore the signs. With the right care and attention, many of the oral health issues linked to endometriosis can be managed or even prevented.

 

Regular check-ups to keep on top of your oral health

At nib Dental, we understand life can be busy, so we offer flexible hours – early, late, and on weekends – to fit around your schedule. With our easy online booking tool, you can secure your appointment in under two minutes, anytime, anywhere. We’re here to make it simple for you to prioritise your oral health.

If you notice any changes in your gums, teeth, or jaw or it’s been a while since your last check-up, book an appointment. Your dentist will work with you to create a personalised plan to keep on top of your oral health.

 

 

*Are Media Healthonomics Dental Health Survey 2024, women aged 25-54

¹Towards a Common Etiopathogenesis: Periodontal Disease and Endometriosis

²Endometriosis

³Towards a Common Etiopathogenesis: Periodontal Disease and Endometriosis

⁴Endometriosis and the Temporomandibular Joint—Preliminary Observations

⁵Association of endometriosis with Sjögren’s syndrome: Genetic insights (Review)

With another season of sports kicking off, now’s the perfect time to check if your footy boots and shorts still fit, but don’t forget to check your or your child’s mouthguard too! Wearing a mouthguard during sport helps protect your face, mouth and jaw from accidental trauma.

 

Do all sports require a mouthguard to be worn?

Mouthguards are compulsory for AFL, hockey, boxing, rugby union and rugby league. However, they are recommended for most other sports where there is risk of direct contact to the face such as soccer and martial arts.

 

In our recent Are Media Healthonomics survey we found that while 20% of respondents know that mouthguards are recommended for soccer, only 14% of those that play soccer actually wear one*.

Not all contact sports require mouthguards, but some clubs enforce strict rules to minimise the risk of dental injuries during play. These clubs implement the ‘no mouthguard, no play’ mouthguard policy, developed by the Australian Dental Association and Sports Medicine Australia.

With dental trauma rates as high as 41% in basketball^ and over a third of rugby players^ experiencing injuries, a custom-fit mouthguard is an essential protection for your smile. 

 

Why do I need a mouthguard from the dentist?

Mouthguards from pharmacies or sports stores (‘boil and bite’ types) often feel bulky, fit poorly, and make it harder to talk. While they may be cheaper, they don’t offer the same level of protection for your only set of permanent teeth.

For the best protection, mouthguards should be custom-made and professionally fitted by your dentist. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to create a mouthguard that fits securely and comfortably around each tooth, providing superior protection for your smile.

 

What are the benefits of a custom-made mouthguard?

• Provides maximum protection by cushioning teeth, jaws and surrounding soft tissue against impact, absorbing and distributing the force of a hit to the mouth.

• Protects individual teeth and reduces the likelihood of teeth being knocked out.

• Helps prevent soft tissue injuries by covering the teeth, reducing the risk of cuts or damage to the lips, tongue, and inner cheeks.

• A comfortable custom fit helps custom mouthguards stay in place, allowing athletes to speak and breathe more easily.

• Helps lower the chance of bone fractures and concussions during impact.

 

Looking after your custom-made mouthguard

Rinse your mouthguard with cold water after each use and store it in the provided case, away from direct heat. Check your mouthguard regularly for signs of wear or damage to ensure it continues to provide full protection.

 

When does my mouthguard need replacing?

Our recent Are Media Healthonomics survey found that, 50% of respondents didn’t know a mouthguard should be replaced every 12 months or sooner if damaged*.

For children, regular fit checks are essential, especially as they lose baby teeth, gain adult teeth and their jaw structure changes. Because of this, kids often need a new mouthguard each season. Your dentist can assess your child’s mouthguard at their regular six-month check-up.

 

Don’t leave your teeth at risk, protect your smile this season. We’ve made it easier for you to find your nearest nib Dental for a custom mouthguard fittings. Find your nearest centre and book an appointment today.

 

 

 

*Are Media Healthonomics Dental Survey 2025, women aged 25-54

^Dental Traumatology – 2024 – Lima – Comparative analysis of dental trauma in contact and non‐contact sports: A systematic review. Dental Traumatology – 2020 – Tewari – Global status of knowledge for prevention and emergency management of traumatic dental injuries in sports persons and coaches: A systematic review 

Many of us start the new year with good intentions to improve our oral health, but how can we turn those resolutions into lasting habits? Focusing on our teeth and gums is a great place to start. Research shows that good oral health not only boosts our overall wellbeing but also helps us feel confident around others¹.

Caring for our mouth, teeth and gums doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but consistency is key. Like any resolution, the challenge isn’t getting started, it’s sticking with it day after day. Here are five ways you can continue your oral health habits throughout the year.

 

1. Brush your teeth and gums for at least 2 minutes twice each day. Pick a time to brush and set a reminder if you need it.
2. Floss daily. Place your floss near your toothbrush where you can see it, to help you remember to do both.
3. Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary food and drinks. Read food and beverage labels when you purchase. Planning and preparing food ahead of time can help you avoid unhealthy snacks. Remember, water is the best drink for your mouth and to stay hydrated.
4. Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner, if the bristles are worn out or you’ve recently been sick. You may like to keep an extra toothbrush or electric toothbrush head on hand for when you need it, especially if you forget to add it to your shipping list.
5. Visit your dentist at least once a year for check-ups and cleanings, preferably every 6 months. Set a reminder, or even better, at the end of each appointment, book your next one. Don’t worry if this is 6 or 12 months away, we’ll remind you when your appointments are coming up.

 

Tips to keep a routine

Creating a routine starts with setting cues that remind you to take action. Pairing your oral health habits with something enjoyable – like the refreshing feeling after brushing – can make them easier to stick with. Positive reinforcement, such as compliments from your dentist during check-ups, also helps reinforce good habits².

If you miss a day or fall short of your goals, don’t be too hard on yourself. Building new habits takes time and consistency matters more than perfection. Repetition strengthens behaviours until they become second nature.

 

Building a relationship with your dentist.

Your dentist will work in partnership with you to optimise your oral health and boost your general sense of wellbeing. Ask your dentist what you can do at home to reduce the likelihood of dental problems. Book an appointment today to discuss your oral health.

 

 

¹ https://www.who.int/health-topics/oral-health#tab=tab_1

²https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/creating-healthy-habits