While you’re self-isolating, it’s important to preserve your dental hygiene routine. With everything changing around you, it can be easier to forget brushing your teeth or put off flossing. However, when you let your dental health move down your priority list, it could cause you to end up with an unexpected trip to your emergency dentist due to a painful infection or sensitive cavity. To preserve your healthy mouth until you’re able to see your dentist again, read on for four helpful tips.
Try to Substitute Processed Snacks
Many people aren’t aware that something as simple as what they eat could increase their risk of developing cavities. Harmful oral bacteria are known to feed off of sugars and carbohydrates found in plaque, allowing them to produce enamel-eroding acid and toxins. The more you snack on these processed foods, the more fuel you’re providing bacteria with, ultimately turning your mouth into the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Instead, try substituting healthier alternatives such as fresh fruits and vegetables.
Don’t Forget to Floss
If you’re guilty of forgetting to floss your teeth, you’re definitely not alone. Countless adults and children don’t floss for a variety of reasons. However, it could increase your risk of developing oral health issues while you’re quarantining. Be sure to set reminders in your phone to floss between each of your teeth to remove food debris or plaque buildup. If you find flossing uncomfortable or cumbersome, try using flossing picks or a water flosser. These are easier to maneuver in your mouth and may be a more comfortable alternative to regular dental floss.
Stick To a Daily Oral Hygiene Routine
Sticking to your normal routine during self-isolation is important, especially when it comes to your oral health. In order to keep your mouth healthy, you’ll need to brush at least twice each day, floss at least once a day, and rinse with antibacterial mouthwash regularly. This will prevent plaque and bacteria buildup in your mouth, eventually resulting in the development of gum disease and decay.
Schedule Your Checkup & Cleaning Once Your Dentist Reopens
Many dental practices are planning on reopening their facilities in May, while implementing strict sanitation and disinfection practices outlined by the CDC to keep patients safe. If you’re due for a dental checkup and cleaning, be sure to schedule yours next month, because the influx of patients seeking appointments may cause dentists to be booked for months out. This will also help ensure that no oral health problems developed while you were self-isolating, and if they did, your dentist will be able to quickly diagnose and treat them before they cause you discomfort or more issues down the road.
About the Author
Dr. Greg Friedman has decades of dental experience under his belt. He focuses on providing high-quality preventive dental care to help his patients avoid developing serious oral health problems down the road. He uses state-of-the-art technology in his practice to ensure that no symptom or issue is left undiagnosed. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit Mod Squad Dental’s website or call 858-682-2394.
