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Winter Lip & Gum Care

2 / 01 / 2026

Protect Your Smile During the Colder Months Cold weather can be harsh on your smile. As temperatures drop, dry outdoor air and warm indoor heating work together to strip moisture from your lips and gums. This often leads to chapped lips, sore gums, and increased sensitivity. With the right winter oral care routine, you can keep your mouth healthy, comfortable, and protected all season long.

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Winter Lip & Gum Care

Protect Your Smile During the Colder Months

Cold weather can be harsh on your smile. As temperatures drop, dry outdoor air and warm indoor heating work together to strip moisture from your lips and gums. This often leads to chapped lips, sore gums, and increased sensitivity. With the right winter oral care routine, you can keep your mouth healthy, comfortable, and protected all season long.

At Larkham House Dental Practice, we see many patients struggle with lip and gum discomfort during winter. The good news? A few simple daily habits can make a big difference.

Chapped lips

Why Winter Affects Your Lips and Gums

Winter air holds less humidity. That means less moisture for your skin and mouth. Heated indoor spaces dry things out even more. When lips dry and crack, they become sore and prone to infection. Gums can also become irritated, inflamed, and more sensitive, especially if plaque builds up.

Healthy lips and gums are not just about comfort. They help protect your teeth from bacteria, decay, and gum disease all year round.

Top Winter Tips for Healthy Lips and Gums

Use a Nourishing Lip Balm Daily

Apply a lip balm with natural oils or beeswax every day. Reapply often, especially before heading outdoors. Avoid licking your lips, as it makes dryness worse.

Drink Plenty of Water

It is easy to forget hydration in cold weather. Drinking enough water keeps your mouth moist and supports healthy gums. Limit caffeine, which can be dehydrating.

Brush Gently With a Soft Toothbrush

Cold-sensitive gums need extra care. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure. Brushing too hard can irritate gums and cause recession.

Don’t Skip Flossing

Flossing removes plaque and food particles that brushing misses. Healthy gums heal faster and are less likely to become sore or bleed in winter.

Keep Up With Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental visits help spot early signs of gum disease, dryness, or infection. Prevention is always easier than treatment.

chapped lips close up

When to Seek Professional Advice

If your gums feel sore, bleed regularly, or your lips keep cracking despite good care, it may be time to seek help. Persistent symptoms can signal underlying oral health issues that need professional attention.

Our friendly team is here to support your smile through every season.

Book Your Winter Check-Up Today

Winter is the perfect time to focus on prevention. A routine dental check-up helps keep your lips, gums, and teeth healthy and strong.


Book your winter check-up today and protect your smile all year round.

Lady pointing to sore gum
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  • 49 Larkham Lane
  • Plymouth
  • PL7 4PH
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