The Covid-19 crisis has drastically affected our world. It has even caused the American Dental Association to recommend that dental offices temporarily provide only urgent and emergency care. Has your dental treatment been delayed due to concerns over Covid-19? Until you can visit your dentist, there are some practical steps you can take to prevent new decay and stop current oral health issues from quickly worsening. In this post, you will discover some practical tips on keeping up with your dental hygiene through the quarantine.
Brush Well
Many people regularly brush their teeth, but not everyone uses proper brushing technique. You should:
- Brush for at least two minutes. Try to spend about 30 seconds brushing each quadrant of your mouth.
- Be thorough. Do not forget to brush the backs of your teeth and the area along the gum line.
- Be gentle. Do not apply a lot of pressure when you are brushing. Doing so could irritate existing spots of decay and damage your gums.
Floss Every Night
It is important that you go to bed each night with a clean mouth. Otherwise, food particles and harmful bacteria could cling to your teeth for hours on end and lead to dental health problems. That is why flossing each evening is so vital.
When you floss, be sure to clean the sides of both teeth that surround a space. Do not simply insert the floss into the space and pull it out. Also, take care that you are gentle and do not “snap” the floss between your teeth.
Use a Mouthwash
A mouthwash can be an excellent way to clean all the little nooks and crannies in your mouth. When you are shopping for a mouthwash, choose one with oral health benefits that are specific to your situation. For example, if you are awaiting periodontal therapy, a mouthwash that fights gingivitis may be best for you. If cavities are a major concern, a mouthwash with fluoride could help to strengthen your enamel and fight decay.
Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment
After the Covid-19 crisis is under control, dental offices will resume their normal operating hours. They may be much busier than usual as they try to catch up on treatments that were delayed during this time of social distancing. To make sure you secure an appointment slot that is convenient for you, try to contact your dentist as soon as possible and schedule your needed treatment.
Has your dental treatment been postponed due to Covid-19? Use the above tips to protect your oral health through the quarantine.
About Us
New Haven Dental Group has four convenient locations throughout New Haven County, including one in Woodbridge. Because we are concerned about the overall health and wellness of our patients, we are only providing emergency care at this time, but we plan to begin providing other treatments after April 6. If you would like to learn more about how we are helping to fight Covid-19, or you would like to schedule your next dental appointment, contact our team at 203-389-7080.