Due to concerns over Covid-19, the American Dental Association has recommended that dental practices only provide urgent and emergency care at this time. Therefore, many patients will need to wait to receive necessary treatment. Are you among them? If you are, applying the following tips on maintaining your dental hygiene through the quarantine can help you to prevent new oral health problems and stop current ones from rapidly worsening.
Thoroughly Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth is a cornerstone of oral health. Unfortunately, however, many individuals do not use proper brushing technique and thus miss out on significant benefits. To make sure your brushing routine is as effective as possible, you should:
- Brush for about two minutes twice a day. Try to spend 30 seconds cleaning each quadrant of your mouth.
- Do not miss commonly skipped areas. Some people often forget to brush the backs of their teeth or the area along the gum line.
- Be gentle. You do not need to apply a lot of pressure for your toothbrush to do its job. In fact, being overzealous with brushing could damage your gums and wear away your tooth enamel.
Do Not Neglect Flossing
Flossing once a day is essential because it cleans out the tight spaces between the teeth that your toothbrush cannot get to. It is best if you choose to floss in the evening. Doing so prevents harmful bacteria and food particles from clinging to your teeth overnight and having an opportunity to damage your oral health.
When you floss, gently insert the string between two of your teeth. Then, instead of just pulling the floss out, gently move it along the sides of both teeth that surround a space. Systemically work your way around your mouth, and do not forget to floss the backs of your back molars.
Use a Mouth Rinse
Using the right mouth rinse, either before or after you brush, can help to clean all the little nooks and crannies in your mouth. Opt for a rinse that is designed to address your specific dental needs. For example, if you are awaiting gum disease treatment, choosing a rinse that is geared toward fighting gingivitis may be a wise choice. Or, if you are concerned about tooth decay, a fluoride-containing rinse may be your best option.
Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment ASAP
When Covid-19 is no longer a major threat, dental practices will resume normal operations. They will likely be much busier than usual, and it might be a challenge for your dentist to schedule your visit at a time that is convenient for you. You may find it beneficial to contact your dentist as soon as possible to get your appointment on the books so you do not have to wait any longer than necessary to receive your needed treatment.
Has your dental treatment been postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic? Use the above tips to protect your oral health during the quarantine.
About Us
New Haven Dental Group has four offices throughout our county, including one in Branford. We miss serving our dear patients, but because we are concerned about their health, as well as the health of our team members, we are currently limiting our practice to emergency and urgent services. We plan to resume normal operations after April 6. If you would like to schedule your next appointment, or you have questions about how we are helping to stop the spread of Covid-19, contact us at 203-488-0091.