Effective Oral Hygiene Habits and Practices

Good oral hygiene can boost your immune system as the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic. The outbreak has led to many dentists in the U.S. only offering emergency services. Brushing twice a day and flossing once each day is even more important now to prevent oral problems that can lead to toothaches and discomfort.

Oral hygiene tips for quarantine

Here are some tips you can use to keep your mouth and immune system healthy:

1. Avoid antibacterial toothpaste and mouthwash

Such products help to kill oral bacteria that lead to bad breath and gum disease, but they also disrupt the oral microbiome. The microbiome is an essential part of a person's immune system so it is best to keep it healthy by avoiding antibacterial or alcohol-based mouth cleaning products.

Toothpastes that contain hydroxyapatite is recommended during these periods since they are less likely to damage the microbiome and they help to rebuild enamel. Fluoride-based mouthwash and toothpaste are also recommended.

2. Avoid teeth-damaging foods

It is easier to get into the habit of snacking all day due to the stress and boredom being caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sugary foods are acidic and they dissolve the surface of the teeth. Carbohydrates are also converted into sugars that damage teeth.

The more a person's teeth are exposed to acids, the more compromised they become. A paleo diet is a healthier option for teeth.

3. Drink lots of water

Water helps to keep the mouth clean by neutralizing and washing acids into the stomach. Sipping on sweet drinks all day will damage enamel, but substituting such drinks with water helps strengthen teeth. Most public water is fluoridated, so it also re-mineralizes teeth and strengthens enamel.

4. Store toothbrush properly

It possible to be infected with COVID-19 due to a contaminated toothbrush. The coronavirus has been found in fecal matter – which is infused into the air anytime a toilet is flushed. Microscopic droplets of fecal matter can be deposited on a poorly stored toothbrush.

It is best to store your toothbrush in a cabinet where it will get adequate ventilation or in the bedroom. You can also close the toilet lid before flushing to reduce the spray of droplets.

5. Keep your gums healthy

Having healthy gums allows a person's immune system to focus on other parts of their body. This is particularly important during a pandemic since the person's body will have to deal with a new threat if they become infected. Good oral hygiene keeps the gums healthy, and it can reverse the early stages of gum disease.

There's help for emergencies

Many dentists are still providing emergency services so you can get the treatment you need if you are dealing with an emergency, like a knocked out or infected tooth. Of course, keeping your mouth healthy can significantly reduce the risk of you developing a dental issue. Call or visit our Fort Lauderdale clinic to learn more about how to keep your mouth healthy.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbyjulia.com or call Smiles By Julia at (954) 271-8034 for an appointment in our Fort Lauderdale office.

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