Tips how to take care of oral health during quarantine
With the changes that come with COVID-19, it’s easy to get out of your day to day routine. During this time, people should take care of their mental health, physical health, boost their immune system, and practice habits that promote good dental hygiene.
This is also the perfect time to educate the kiddos about good dental habits like flossing and brushing their teeth. The truth is that it is uncertain when things would be back to normal and when everyone will have access to all dental services, so parents must ensure that their kids take care of their teeth during this period.
Of course, there is more to proper oral hygiene besides flossing and brushing one’s teeth. We at ALERIS SALEM DENTAL CENTER in Salem, MA wanted to share with you some tips on how to take care of your oral health while having to self-quarantine:
Wash your hands before and after any dental routine.
Brush your teeth using fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
Floss once a day, as it helps in removing bacteria and plaque lodged between your teeth.
Rinse your mouth using mouthwash at least once a day.
Consume a balanced diet and cut down on snacks that are sticky and sugary like cake and cookies.
Limit your frequent snacking, as it can lead to cavities.
Reduce the consumption of sugary drinks like soda or juices, as it can affect the surfaces of your teeth.
Drink lots of water to encourage saliva production, which reduces the risk of cavities.
Do not smoke. It reduces the flow of blood to your mouth, which makes it easy for the bacteria to proliferate.
Don’t ever share a toothbrush. It doesn’t matter how close you are with the people with you. Through this kind of sharing, you transmit viruses and blood-borne diseases to other people or might get one.
Keep your toothbrush heads away from each other.
Change your toothbrush, or your brush head often, as it helps in preventing the spread of bacteria. It is recommended to change it at least every three months or when the bristles get frayed.
As many people are working from home and getting adjusted to new routines, it might be easy to include these good dental habits in it.
Although it is incredibly important to take care of your physical and mental health during these trying times, you should also take care of your oral health while having to self-quarantine.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about our dental services and schedule at this time.
ALERIS SALEM DENTAL CENTER in Salem, MA is open for you to visit your dentist! As dental healthcare providers during a pandemic and following the recommendation of the American Dental Association, we will continue to see patients on an emergency and case-by-case basis if they are not showing symptoms such as fever, persistent coughing, or shortness of breath.