The current pandemic has resulted in closing dental offices for safety reasons, and caring for your teeth at home has become even more important. Seeing a dentist to maintain our oral health is a must during normal circumstances, but we are being advised that we must stay home. Leaving our homes could potentially endanger ourselves and others. During this time at home, it is essential we know how to maintain oral hygiene by using expert tips to care for ourselves.
Here are some tips to help keep your teeth and gums healthy until you can see a dentist again.
Don’t Brush Aggressively
It is essential to keep your teeth clean after every meal, but it is also equally important not to overdo it! While brushing your teeth is the most effective way to keep bacteria and plaque out of your teeth, it is also crucial that you brush with the right technique. We suggest using a gentle rolling motion away from the gums. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice per day, especially before bed.
Remember to Floss
As much as brushing your teeth can help, flossing is just as important. Flossing can remove plaque that is stuck between your teeth after a meal. Sometimes, even brushing two or three times can’t remove plaque stuck in between your teeth. Plaque can cause bad breath and cavities, so you definitely want to get rid of it!
Use Fluoride
Fluoride is a very common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwashes. It comes from an element in earth’s soil called fluorine, and it is known for its cavity prevention abilities. Whenever you use toothpaste, check to see that it has fluoride. Don’t take it for granted that your dental products have fluoride in them!
A lack of fluoride can cause tooth decay and cavities, and you certainly don’t want to put yourself at risk during a pandemic.
Reduce or Quit Smoking
Smoking has an adverse effect on our immune system. A weakened immune system means that the body has a lesser capability to repair itself. The CDC claims that smoking is a risk factor for gum disease, and smokers may experience slower healing after a dental procedure. Smoking can also cause tooth discolouration. If you want a perfect smile, don’t smoke!
Use Mouthwash
Studies have shown that using an effective mouthwash can improve oral health; it also helps freshen breath. We do not recommend that you only use a mouthwash to keep your teeth clean, but to use it along with regular brushing and flossing. Mouthwashes are known to reduce plaque and the chances of suffering from gingivitis.
Reduce Sugary Foods
Consuming a lot of sugar can cause many dental problems, including cavities. Numerous studies have shown that sugar can cause poor dental health. One of the most common ways we harm our teeth through sugar is by consuming a lot of candy, sugary beverages like pops, desserts and processed foods.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) people should limit their sugar intake to 10% (or less) of the daily calories they consume to promote their oral health.
We look forward to the day when we are able to open our doors and care for our patients in-person once again. We hope that you find these tips helpful to stay as healthy as possible. Be well, and we hope to see you soon!
