Dr. Cynthia Wong

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Chapped Lips

With winter upon us, many people are suffering from dry lips. People with braces tend to be especially vulnerable to dryness and irritation, which is why we at Dr. Cynthia Wong’s Orland Park orthodontic practice want our patients to know how to take care of themselves.


Cold air is not able to retain as much moisture as warm air. The first line of defense against chapping is to avoid exposing your lips to the air, especially when it’s windy. Wrap a scarf tightly over your mouth when you’re outside. When you’re inside, use a humidifier in rooms such as your bedroom where you have to be for a long time. Drink plenty of water, and apply lip balm several times per day, including before you go to bed. Pay attention to the ingredients in your lip balm, because some, such as menthol, makes irritation worse in some people. Avoid licking your lips; saliva evaporates quickly and will leave them even drier.


As for the inside of the mouth, apply dental wax to the brackets in problem areas frequently. You may need to see a breathing specialist if you are unable to breathe through your nose because mouth breathing is likely to dry out the inside of your mouth and make you more vulnerable to ulcers and chapping.


Cynthia Wong, DMD, operates at 15614 S Harlem #B, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462. To contact her office, call 708-444-8341 or visit Dr. Cynthia Wong and send a message.


 

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