The COVID-19 pandemic has created enormous stress and disrupted many of our daily habits and routines for health and wellness.
How to take care of your teeth during COVID-19 and prevent a dental emergency
We do not want your dental health to be put at risk during the COVID-19 crisis, and while most practices provide urgent dental emergency care at the moment, we urge patients to do what they can at home to protect their dental well-being. Here are 4 oral healthcare tips to follow during this time:
1. Diet Matters.
What you eat is important. These changes to your diet can have a huge impact on your oral health. Did you know that carbohydrates, when combined with the bacteria in your mouth, produce acid? This acid attacks your teeth for at least 20 minutes each time you eat or drink, increasing your risk for cavities.
Consuming a healthy diet and avoiding processed foods is important not only during the COVID-19 pandemic but year-round to help protect your oral health and boost your overall health. Here is a list we have made to keep your teeth healthy:
- Don’t linger over your food and drinks.
- Make water your beverage of choice.
- Eat no more than 3 meals and 2 snacks daily.
- Limit unhealthy snacks like granola bars, chips, and crackers.
- Include protein or fats each time you eat.
- Choose healthy snacks like apples, crunchy vegetables, nuts, and plain yogurt.
- Eat sweets only with meals.
2. Keep Your Toothbrush Clean.
Many people forget to replace their toothbrushes, but you must do this every 2-3 months, or more regularly if it starts to look worn or splayed. Remember, if your toothbrush is old or worn out, it won’t clean your teeth effectively and you are putting yourself at a higher risk of dental problems down the road, such as decay. Healthy gums can better prepare you to fight an infection, so ensure your toothbrush is clean and new.
3. Start or Maintain Good Habits.
When it comes to your teeth, brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash is only a part of the whole picture. Maintaining good habits is important to keep your teeth safe from foreign substances. Also maintaining good hydration is an important part of your oral health, as it can help wash away food particles in your mouth post-meals.
4. Dental Care Emergencies Only.
It is good to define what a dental emergency is, especially during quarantine. You should go only when it is absolutely necessary. This is our list for some urgent dental emergencies that may require you to visit the clinic.
- A tooth abscess or severe infection
- Dental or jaw pain that is not manageable with over-the-counter pain medication
- A knocked-out tooth
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Injury to your mouth or face
