How healthy are your teeth? Although many people are quick to underestimate their dental health, the fact of the matter is that there are a lot of different elements that play into overall dental wellness. From how often you brush and floss to how regularly you attend regular checkups, it is important to stay in close communication with your dentist, especially if you come down with a new symptom. The purpose of this website is to help people to understand and resolve dental issues, since small symptoms can lead to big problems down the road. Check out these posts to learn more about dental care.
If you're like many people, the current COVID-19 pandemic has you worried about your health. But, you should also be worried about your teeth. Right now, dental offices are offering limited services right now, which means you need to spend more time on personal dental hygiene. Before you neglect your teeth any longer, here are four steps you can take to ensure proper oral hygiene during this health crisis.
Keep Your Hands Clean
You might not be able to visit your dentist for routine dental care, there are still steps you can take to protect your teeth. The first you need to do is keep your hands clean. Hand washing is an important way to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. But, it's also a good way to protect your teeth, as well. Your hands carry more germs than you might think. Unfortunately, those germs can make you sick. They can also increase your risk of gum disease. To protect your health, and your teeth, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly.
Use a Medicated Mouthwash
If you want to protect your teeth during the current health crisis, make sure you add mouthwash to your daily dental care routine. Studies show that some medicated mouthwashes are effective against the virus. Mouthwash also kills germs and bacteria that can cause cavities and gingivitis. That's why it's so important for you to gargle with a medicated mouthwash. Gargling with medicated mouthwash as part of your oral care routine will help to protect your teeth, your gums, and your health.
Change Your Toothbrush
If it's been several months since you changed your toothbrush, now's the time to do that. Under normal circumstances, you should change your toothbrush at least once every three months. But, now that you're trying to avoid COVID-19, it's important for you to consider changing your toothbrush more often. You might not realize this, but your toothbrush attracts a lot of germs. Each time you sneeze, or cough, aerosols and droplets are sent flying through the air. Unfortunately, they can end up on your toothbrush bristles. Reduce the risk. Invest in a new toothbrush more frequently.
Watch for Dental Issues
Finally, you may not be able to see your dentist for routine care right now, but you still need to watch for dental emergencies. Most dentists are open for emergency dental care. Dental problems such as broken teeth, abscesses, and lost fillings should receive immediate dental attention.
For more information, contact a family dentist.