Most states have issued guidelines saying that, during the COVID-19 crisis, all non-essential business practices should be placed on hold. When it comes to your oral health, this unfortunately includes preventive care appointments for cleanings and checkups. How are you to prevent the accumulation of oral bacteria and plaque? A dentist in Dublin says there’s no need to worry, because there are some key steps you can take to protect yourself until you’re able to visit again. Read on to learn what you can do now!
Put Oral Hygiene First
Plaque is always growing inside your mouth, but there are ways to keep it under control. One way to do so is to practice consistent oral hygiene. This should include brushing and flossing at least two times a day to rid your mouth of any lingering debris and bacteria. Both processes are of equal importance because, combined, they agitate and free particles clinging to your teeth, while also probing the tight spaces between them to achieve maximum cleanliness.
Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
Germs and bacteria will seek to latch on and linger wherever there is an inviting environment. The bristles of your toothbrush aren’t exempt, so to keep them clean, you should do the following:
- Store the toothbrush in an upright position so that it can properly dry.
- If you have more than one toothbrush stored, don’t let the heads touch.
- Rinse the toothbrush under hot water after each usage to help rid it of leftover paste that could contain bacteria.
In addition to keeping your toothbrush clean, you should discard it for a new one every 60-90 days. However, if you’ve been sick, it should immediately be disposed of.
Monitor Your Sugar Intake
The main contributor to bacteria growth is sugar consumption. That’s because it’s the favorite food of the microorganisms. To protect yourself from cavity development and gum disease, monitor how much sugar you consume, whether through beverages or foods.
If you have a “sweet tooth,” then there are healthier alternatives to the usual snacks of candy, pastries or other highly processed foods. Fruit can be an excellent substitute that still allows you to satisfy a craving for something sweet. You can also consider products that use healthy sugar alternatives like stevia, xylitol or monk fruit extract.
While regular dental visits are priceless, it helps to know that during this unusual time, there are several ways to protect yourself until you can get in for a dental checkup and cleaning. By being proactive and forward-thinking, you can ensure that your next dental visit will be a pleasant one!
About the Author
Since earning his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Eric Buck has been a passionate proponent of preventive dental care. He knows that during the COVID-19 crisis everyone is being forced to make a host of lifestyle changes. Thus, Dr. Buck is eager to provide his patients with up-to-date information so they can still experience the best in oral health. If you have a dental emergency, he is still available to provide care at Distinctive Smiles, and he can be reached for more information through his website.