Fall means seasonal drinks, sweater weather, Halloween decor, and around here at Kensington Square Dental, we’re hearing the usual fall oral health questions. Fall means cozy and spooky season, but it also means Halloween candy, tooth sensitivity, and dry mouth. We’re here to answer your most common fall dental health questions.

How to Avoid Cavities After Halloween?

Halloween is a fun time for you and your family, but it can be a nightmare for your teeth. Sticky, sour, and hard candies all pose different problems. Sticky treats like caramels and gummies cling to enamel, sour candies are highly acidic, and hard candies can crack or chip teeth if bitten. We want you to be able to enjoy the Halloween treats without them playing any tricks on your dental health, so here’s our advice:

• Enjoy candy in moderation, ideally with meals, not between them.
• Drink water to help neutralize acids and rinse your mouth.
• When sorting through your candy haul,  keep an eye out for the chocolate (especially dark chocolate). This is actually the least harmful option for your teeth, as it dissolves quickly and rinses away more easily than sticky treats.

Why Do My Teeth Hurt More in the Fall/Winter?

If your tooth sensitivity seems to be worse in the fall, you aren’t imagining things. Teeth can be sensitive to temperature changes when enamel has worn thin or gums have receded, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath. In the fall, the cooler air and the hot beverages can make your tooth sensitivity more noticeable. But there are things you can do to help with the discomfort:

• Switch to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure when brushing.
• Avoid brushing immediately after acidic foods or drinks.
• Schedule a dental checkup if sensitivity persists, as it can be a sign of enamel erosion, gum recession, or a small cavity starting to form. 

Why Is My Mouth Drier in the Fall?

Cooler temperatures and the use of indoor heating can reduce humidity, which can dry out your mouth. In cooler temperatures, mouth breathing also becomes more prevalent, which in turn increases dry mouth. Not only is the dry mouth feeling uncomfortable, but a lack of saliva can make it harder to wash away food debris and neutralize acids, raising your risk of cavities and gum irritation. This isn’t something you just have to suffer through, though. Here are some simple solutions to help combat your dry mouth this fall:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Try sugar-free lozenges or xylitol gum to stimulate saliva.
• Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes.
• Run a humidifier in your bedroom while sleeping.
• Try mouth taping while sleeping to encourage nose breathing.
• If dry mouth continues, speak to your dentist for some additional solutions

Will Hot Drinks Stain My Teeth?

Seasonal lattes and teas, to stay cozy in the cooler weather, wine at dinner parties, as the holiday season ramps up—these are autumn essentials. Unfortunately, they’re also culprits for teeth staining. These drinks contain tannins, which cause yellow or brown discoloration over time. Of course, we want our Kensington Square Dental clients to enjoy all the autumn treats, while still taking care of their teeth, so here are a few tips to minimize teeth staining:

• Rinse with water after finishing your drink.
• Use a straw for iced versions to limit contact with teeth.
• Don’t brush immediately after drinking; wait 30 minutes to protect enamel.
• Schedule a professional cleaning or whitening treatment to lift stains safely.

Whether it’s managing candy intake, fighting tooth sensitivity, or keeping your teeth beautifully white, a few small steps can make a big difference for your smile this fall. Autumn can be such a fun season, and with the tips we’ve shared, you should be able to thoroughly enjoy the fall fun without harming your smile. And if it’s been more than six months since your last visit, now’s the time to schedule your checkup—especially to make use of your benefits before the year’s end.