With most dental practices closed due to Covid, you might have had a realization – “how am I going to take care of my teeth?” When you can’t rely on a checkup to spot the warning signs, you have to do it yourself. Of course, there’s one problem – you’re not a professional.
As a result, maintaining your gums and teeth is a struggle. Plus, you’ve got other things to worry about, so you might not even give them the attention they deserve. This is a mistake as there is evidence to show good oral hygiene boosts the immune system.
If you haven’t already, here’s what you should do.
Switch To An Electric Toothbrush
There are so many products to pick from that it’s often easier to stick with a tried and tested method of brushing. A regular toothbrush isn’t fancy, but it does the job. Unfortunately, it’s not as effective as an electrical model since it has a smaller head and lacks vibration. This means electric brushes can get into tighter areas and remove more substances, preventing plaque from building up and causing tooth decay. It’s a small change that has a big impact throughout a pandemic.
Watch What You Eat
Diet matters because food turns into plaque, which in turn attacks the enamel that protects your teeth. Therefore, it’s smart to avoid sugary substances, particularly ones that are refined and unnatural. Hard candies are prime examples. Another trick is to curb your appetite. When you’re hungry, you will snack, and when you snack, you increase the number of bacteria in your mouth. This is especially true if you don’t brush properly or fail to floss and use mouthwash. Opt for foods that aren’t acidic to keep your teeth stronger and more durable.
Contact A Professional
Just because your dental surgery isn’t open as normal doesn’t mean it’s out of bounds. Lots of practices are evolving into the crisis in a bid to help their patients from needless pain and discomfort. For example, some dentists conduct checkups via video link. It’s not as effective as doing it in-person, yet it’s better than nothing. Don’t assume your surgery is closed because some are still operating. You might be able to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately and take care of any problems. Or, they might accept emergencies and see you on the same day.
Clean Your Brush
Cleaning your toothbrush isn’t something you do regularly. When your current one looks dated, you replace it with a new one. Easy. However, research shows brushes can carry Covid because of the proximities of the toilet and sink. In short, Covid is in fecal matter, and the spray from flushing can land on the heads and transports into your mouth very easily. The good news is, soaking a toothbrush in a mixture of mouthwash and hydrogen peroxide keeps you safe. Of course, if you’re in doubt, you should get a replacement asap.
Don’t let your oral hygiene drop during Covid. It’s a feature that can help you be healthier overall.
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