Taking Care of Your Oral Health During COVID-19

Over the last few months, there has been much stress and uncertainty for many. And this can lead to a disruption in the daily routines we once practiced in so many ways, particularly for our health and wellness.

Have you, for instance, found yourself eating more frequently or maybe less? Snacking more? Drinking more sugary beverages? Eating more carbs? Brushing less frequently and flossing only now and again?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you are at a higher risk of getting cavities or other oral infections. Here are some tips for practising good oral care during the COVID-19 pandemic

1. Don’t skip on your dental cleaning and appointments!

Here at Cornerstone Family Dentistry, we are open and practicing strict health and safety measures to ensure your well-being, and also to ensure a stress-free appointment. We understand everyone is a little nervous as Ontario starts to open up more and more, that is why we are doing everything we can to make you feel comfortable and safe. Click here to read more about our COVID guidelines. It’s important to take care of your teeth through this time! Don’t skip on regular cleanings and if you have any issues, pain, or discomfort, call us to make an appointment. We are here to serve you and your family’s oral health safely through this difficult time.

2. Brush Twice Daily

Get back to the routine of brushing your teeth twice daily. Brush when you get up in the morning to brush away the acid and bacteria that has built up while you slept. A bonus is it gets rid of morning breath too!

Then, brush again before going to bed. This will brush away the food particles and debris that have built up on your teeth during the day. If you don’t brush them away before sleeping, they have all night to damage your teeth. Over time this can result in considerable damage. 

3. Floss

As we like to say, “Floss like a boss.” Flossing is a way to clean between your teeth. When you think about it, if you don’t floss, you are leaving one-third of your tooth surfaces uncleaned. This, of course, increases your chance of tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Limit Sugar Intake

Sugar is a major contributor when it comes to tooth decay, oral infections, and gum disease. Sugary foods increase the acidity in your mouth. This acid weakens your tooth enamel eventually leading to cavities. 

For good dental health, reduce your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages opting for healthier snacks like apples, crunchy vegetables, nuts, and plain yogurt. 

Let’s be honest though, all of us crave a sweet treat occasionally. When this craving hits, eat your treat with a meal rather than as a snack. The reason being is the flow of saliva increases when we eat. This helps dilute and wash the sugars away from your teeth. 

5. Drink Water

You may know the importance of drinking water to stay hydrated, but it is also important for your oral health. Your body needs a lot of water to produce saliva. Saliva is a protective fluid that neutralizes acids in the mouth and helps wash away excess food particles, old skin cells and bacteria. It also contains minerals to protect your teeth and lower the risk of decay. So, drink water — and lots of it!