28
May
How to Keep Your Smile Healthy During COVID-19
Most of us are going through some pretty intense changes right now due to COVID-19. We’re adjusting to working from home, wearing masks when we go out, and not seeing our loved ones in person as much as we would like. While there are a lot of things that we can’t do for the foreseeable future, it’s the perfect time to focus on the things we can do, like taking care of our oral health. With your dentist in Framingham postponing all non-emergency dental care, at-home oral hygiene is more important than ever. Here are some tips to keep your pearly whites nice and healthy until your dentist reopens for cleanings.
Wash Your Hands
These days, we often wash our hands before eating or touching our faces, which is great. But what many people often forget is that your hands touch your toothbrush, which then goes into your mouth. As a result, any germs present on your hands, including the coronavirus, could enter your mouth. Before you engage in any oral hygiene habits, aim to scrub your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Brush Twice a Day
Ideally, you should use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. This naturally occurring vitamin strengthens the enamel of your teeth, making them less vulnerable to cavities. When you don’t have cavities, odds are you won’t have a toothache severe enough to call your emergency dentist in Framingham. Make sure to brush for two minutes every time.
Floss Once a Day
Flossing is the only way to remove food debris and plaque from between your teeth and along your gumline. To help you remember to clean between your teeth, set your container of floss down on your pillow. That way you’re reminded before you go to bed.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Mouthwash can clean areas of your mouth that your toothbrush and floss just can’t reach. Buy an alcohol-free mouthwash, since alcohol causes dry mouth, which puts you at a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.
Stick to a Mouth-Healthy Diet
Although they may be a bit scarce in times like these, eat fresh fruits and vegetables when you can get them. They’re chock full of vitamins and minerals that your teeth and gums need to thrive. Similarly, limit sugary snacks and drinks. Their high sugar content becomes fuel for destructive oral bacteria.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is by far the healthiest drink for your teeth. It keeps your gums hydrated and washes excess food particles out of your mouth, decreasing your risk for tooth decay. Substitute sugary drinks like soda for water and your teeth and gums will thank you for it.
Everyone is going through changes during these trying times, and that includes your dentist. For the time being, most dentists are only treating patients with emergencies, but if you follow the tips listed above, you likely won’t need emergency treatment.
About the Author
Dr. Adelina Duka is a dentist in Framingham, MA who received her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” Bucharest. She is a compassionate dentist who is dedicated to coming up with a personalized approach for every patient who walks through her office doors. Her practice is currently only treating dental emergencies, due to COVID-19. If you think you might have one, contact Dr. Duka at (508) 665-2016.