Don't Neglect Your Teeth: How To Care For Your Teeth Until Dental Offices Open Again
If you're still stuck inside due to the current pandemic, your teeth may be suffering. Dental offices have been affected by the shutdown orders. Some cities have relaxed restrictions. But, there are still some cities that are under tight regulations. If you're in one of them, it can be difficult to get the dental care you need. If that's the case, you should be practicing better dental hygiene. The steps you take can help you keep your teeth healthy until you can get to the dentist again. Here are five steps to help you protect your teeth if your dentist has had to close their office.
Watch What You Eat
If you've started snacking to cure your boredom, you're not alone. Many people have increased their snacking during the shutdown. But, too many snacks can be bad for your teeth. This is especially true if you choose the wrong snacks. If you're snacking on unhealthy foods, your teeth may suffer. Protect your teeth. Snack on fresh fruit and vegetables while you're stuck at home. It's also a good idea to trade the sodas for water.
Change Your Toothbrush
If you're still using the same toothbrush you had before the stay-at-home orders took effect, it's time for a new one. It's always a good idea to change your toothbrush about once every three months. Once a toothbrush wears out, it can't get your teeth as clean as they should be. Not only that, you want to kill as many germs as you can during the current health crisis. One easy way to do that is to toss out your old toothbrush.
Use a Mouthwash
If you don't use mouthwash on a regular basis, now's a good time to start. You could have plaque and tartar building up on your teeth. If you can't get to the dentist for a routine cleaning, that buildup could be damaging your teeth. Mouthwash can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. It can also help reduce the bacteria that can cause gum disease. Also, early studies show that mouthwash may help against COVID-19. Some of the ingredients in mouthwash can help kill the COVID-19 virus that could be hiding in your throat.
Seek Emergency Dental Care
If you develop dental problems while stay-at-home orders are in effect, call your dentist immediately. Most dentists are seeing their patients for emergency care. Postponing emergency dental care could make the problem get worse. It's also important that you resume routine dental care as soon as your city opens up again.
For more tips, reach out to a local dentist.
Share