HOW TO KEEP YOUR TEETH HEALTHY DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK

During the COVID-19 outbreak, we should follow a routine to keep healthy our

teeth. It is obvious that most of the dentist offices were closed which is why a lot

of people were unable to receive dental care but, there are many suggestions

from dentists that we can take for good dental hygiene. First, dentists advise

brushing teeth twice a day and flossing once per day, additionally, rinsing with a

non-alcohol-based mouthwash twice a day can prevent gingivitis. Then, our diet

is important for oral health, we should avoid excessive snacking, starchy foods,

and drinks that could affect tooth surfaces. It is better to consume non-fiber

carbohydrates and avoid processed foods as possible. Furthermore, we

shouldn’t smoke, drink alcohol, and chew on ice. Smoke increases the risk of

gum infections; alcohol can dry out cells in our cheeks and gums, and chewing

on ice can make teeth break. There is a point that sometimes we ignore:

toothbrush cleaning. We should disinfect our toothbrushes, even more, because

of COVID-19. When we flush the toilet, we generate an aerosol spray, said

Kartik Antani. For that, it is important to keep floss pics, brushes, and tongue

cleaners covered. If we have healthy gums, we would be better prepared to

fight coronavirus infection. There is evidence that our immune responses are

better if we maintain good gum health. Because of COVID-19, some states in

the U.S prohibited providing nonemergency services, for that reason,

telecommunication is a good option if we have teeth, gums, or mouth problems.

Dentists could give a prescription if we ask for help with a phone call. We

should recognize that dentists are exposed to coronavirus even more than

nurses or paramedics. They have direct contact with their patients’ faces during
dental procedures, for that reason, they take additional safety measures just as

happened in the 80s with HIV.