There are many ways you can do your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus, in your community. The most notable steps include social distancing, which entails staying at least six feet away from others in public places. Washing hands frequently, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and only leaving the house when you absolutely need to are some of the most effective ways to help. While you practice these habits, it’s also key to maintain a strong oral care regimen. Since dental practices are largely closed for routine services like exams and cleanings, it certainly couldn’t hurt to take your oral care up a notch! Here’s how.
Perfecting Your Oral Care & Preventing Dental Disease
If you are used to attending the dentist regularly, then you’re probably disappointed by the fact that you can’t get your exam and cleaning out of the way due to quarantine. However, now is the perfect time to make sure that you’re actually doing everything that you need to ensure there’s no chance of dental disease while you self-isolate.
When practicing your oral hygiene, make sure to:
- Brush twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss at least once a day
- Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste when brushing
- Remove 12 to 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your index fingers for easier use
- Scrub all the surfaces of teeth, including the molars and back sides facing the throat
- Make sure not to snap floss when removing it from in between teeth
- Brush for at least two minutes
Reducing the Risk of Dental Emergencies
Dental offices are still open for dental emergencies, but you don’t want to leave the house to treat a dental emergency if you don’t have to. While oral hygiene can greatly reduce your risk of dental decay, you can also avoid dental emergencies by:
- Avoiding contact sports altogether when exercising
- Never chewing on very hard foods like ice cubes, hard candy or popcorn kernels
- Never using your teeth as a tool to open packages
- Breaking habits that damage teeth, such as nail biting or chewing on pens and pencils
- Wearing a dedicated nightguard if you have a teeth grinding or clenching habit
How Mouthwash Makes a Difference
When you need your oral care routine to be extra thorough, an oral rinse can help you kill bacteria in places of the mouth that are typically hard to reach when brushing and flossing. Opt for an oral rinse that is fluoridated so your tooth enamel can get the extra minerals it needs to remain strong. Avoid rinses that contain alcohol, as these can actually cause the mouth to dry out and promote bacteria production. Rinse your mouth for at least one minute at a time twice a day, and you’ll not only have a cleaner mouth, but a fresher smelling one as well! On top of that, you’ll be doing your part to reduce your risk of dental issues, even while in quarantine from COVID-19.
About Texas Dentistry
The dentists at Texas Dentistry are fully dedicated to protecting your oral health throughout the year and giving you the tools and tips necessary to keep it safe in between dental appointments. Of course, they’re more than ready to address your dental emergency if you have one, even during the pandemic. To get in touch with them, you can contact them through their website.