Nausea causes a number of discomforts: you throw up all the time, your stomach feels queasy and unsettled, and you lose all your strength. For these reasons alone, it’s important to seek medical attention whenever nausea lasts for longer than a few hours. To make matters worse, however, nausea also affects your dental health. Here’s how:
When you throw up, acids and bile from your stomach are expelled through the mouth. Some of these acids stay in the mouth and if they remain there for too long, your gums, teeth, and throat may be endangered.
Conditions caused by nausea and vomiting include tooth decay, mouth sores, dryness of the mouth, reddened tongue, severe sore throat, and tooth sensitivity.
Tips to Maintain Oral Wellbeing
If you find yourself constantly throwing up, here are some tips to help ensure your dental well-being.
- Rinse out your mouth immediately after vomiting. You may use a fluoride mouthwash to gargle.
- Never brush your mouth after you vomit. Acids from the stomach have most likely weakened your enamel and brushing may cause erosion, leaving your teeth vulnerable to cavities.
- About an hour after throwing up, you may brush your teeth using a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste.
Keep the tips above in mind whenever you are suffering from nausea and incessant vomiting. Pregnant women in their first trimester are particularly vulnerable because of morning sickness. During this period, it may be important to see the dentist more regularly.
Residents of Richmond, Texas may visit Mission Bend Family Dentistry for their checkups and dental treatments. Call +1-832-895-5110 for any inquiries or to make an appointment.