Living in Boulder’s high-altitude environment comes with many perks: fresh mountain air, gorgeous scenery, and no shortage of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, life at altitude also comes with some unique health challenges—and oral health is no exception.
At higher elevations, the lower air pressure causes gases to expand. This can lead to unexpected dental discomfort. People with fillings, crowns, or untreated cavities may experience dental barotrauma, where trapped air causes sensitivity or even pain.
Additionally, Boulder’s dry climate can contribute to dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Essential Dental Care Tips for High-Altitude Living
Adapting to Boulder’s altitude means taking extra steps to protect your teeth and gums. Consider these essential oral care strategies to do so:
- Stay hydrated — Dry air tends to reduce saliva production, so drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth and keep bacteria at bay.
- Use fluoride toothpaste — Focus on using toothpaste that strengthens enamel and prevents decay, especially if dry mouth is a persistent issue.
- Schedule regular checkups — Seeing a dentist frequently ensures that altitude-related dental issues like barotrauma or increased sensitivity, are identified and addressed early.
- Avoid sudden altitude changes — If possible, ascend gradually when hiking or traveling to prevent rapid pressure shifts affecting your dental work.
Altitude-Specific Dental Care at Diagonal Dental in Boulder, CO
Diagonal Dental in Boulder recognizes the unique challenges of living at high altitudes and provides specialized care designed for our community. Our practice offers comprehensive dental exams to identify pressure-related issues, custom mouthguards for those suffering from altitude-related discomfort, and personalized dry mouth solutions to support optimal oral health.
Whether you require preventive care, restorative treatments, or professional guidance on managing oral health in Boulder’s climate, Dr. Brett Amedro and the friendly Diagonal Dental team are ready to help you maintain a healthy smile at any elevation!