How to Keep Dental Hygiene in Tip-Top Shape While Staying at Home Amid COVID-19

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Oral Hygiene and COVID-19

Because of the ongoing global pandemic, approximately 198,000 active dentists and dental specialists in the USA have been shut down given the nature of the virus and how easily it can be dispersed during standard dental procedures. People are urged to remain indoors and take necessary precautions to avoid coronavirus. The additional stress and boredom by being cooped up at home may cause further anxiety and stress, which may cause people to take for granted their usual healthcare routine, such as dental hygiene.

To avoid trips to your dentist's office, it is vital to maintain proper dental and oral hygiene. Below are some tips on how to prevent dental issues during these challenging times.

Tips on keeping dental hygiene in tip-top shape

Brushing. Make sure to brush all parts of your teeth at least twice a day for 2-3 minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid hurting your gums and eroding your tooth structure. Avoid brushing rigorously so as not to add to the wear and tear of your gums and teeth.
Invest in a good toothbrush and change every 3-4 months or more often than that if the bristles start to matte or become frayed, according to the American Dental Association.
Floss twice a day gently to remove plaque and harmful bacteria from those hard-to-reach places.
Reduce the intake of sugary foods. While sugary foods are considered comfort foods during this pandemic, it is best to opt for naturally sweet foods like fruits to reduce dental visits.
When drinking carbonated beverages, it is better to down it rather than taking small sips throughout the day as it can lower the pH level of the mouth and weaken tooth enamel. Once you finished the drink, drink water to reduce teeth staining and allow the mouth to return to normal pH.
Get a good mouthwash to reduce acid in the mouth. Swish it thoroughly through the mouth to clean areas that the toothbrush can't reach and strengthen teeth.
Avoid smoking. People may turn to smoking as a means for stress relief, especially during these challenging times. However, smoking reduces blood flow to the mouth and can also cause oral cancer. Aside from that, smoking affects the production of saliva. Without proper moisture, dental cavities are more likely to occur.

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Even with the observance of proper dental hygiene, dental emergencies can still happen. It is essential to know how to identify one before rushing to the dentist. Some consultations can be scheduled over the phone, and management can be simple and achievable at home.

But if a trip to the dentist's office is needed, you should go ahead and make an appointment. All dental offices are observing proper COVID-19 guidelines implemented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, such as health screening, regular disinfection of office surfaces and equipment, and implementation of wearing masks. This way, you can have your dental cleanings and maintain a beautiful smile even amidst the coronavirus pandemic.