Washington state’s Governor, John Inslee, has officially put into place his Stay Home, Stay Healthy orders. These require every Washingtonian to stay home unless they’re performing “essential” activities. It’s also requiring the closure of all businesses that aren’t deemed essential. That means that if you’re diligent about getting routine checkups and cleanings from your dentist in Lacey, WA, it’s up to you to keep your mouth healthy during self-isolation now. Unfortunately, there’s no telling when this will all blow over and you’ll be able to visit your dentist again. In the meantime, you can read on for four tips to help keep your smile healthy and happy while staying home. ß
Stick To Your Regular Dental Hygiene Routine
Although you may find yourself lounging around more, it’s important to still stick to your dental hygiene routine. The ADA recommends brushing twice each day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once daily, and rinsing your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash once daily. As long as you do all of this, you should be able to prevent plaque from hardening into tartar and causing the development of decay.
Although It’s Tempting, Steer Clear of Junk Food
There’s no denying that food is a great comfort when it comes to these stressful times. However, frequently snacking on junk food while you’re self-isolating won’t be good for your body or your mouth. Although it may be tempting to snag easy-to-eat Oreos or potato chips off of a shelf, these types of food are high in sugars and carbohydrates, which harmful oral bacteria love to feed on. While these snacks are fine to indulge in every once in awhile, try substituting fresh fruits and vegetables to tame your snacking mood instead. These will help naturally remove plaque from the surface of your teeth and are better for your body!
If You Get Sick, Avoid Taking Cough Syrup or Drops
COVID-19 is occurring during the same time as the flu and allergy season, which means that you may find yourself non-stop coughing, with a sore throat, or feeling cloudy while you’re self-isolating. Even though your go-to may be to take cough syrup or a sore throat lozenge, these medications aren’t great for your oral health because they contain so much sugar. Instead, try substituting medications that are sugar-free.
Don’t Forget to Wear Your Teeth Grinding Nightguard
If you got a customized nightguard for your teeth grinding condition from your family dentist in Lacey, WA, be sure to wear it every night while you’re self-isolating to prevent a dental emergency. The force of your teeth grinding against each other can strain your facial muscles and increase your risk of breaking, fracturing, or chipping a tooth.
Even though your dentist in Lacey isn’t open at the moment, they will be once all of this is over, which is why it’s important to take great care of your mouth during these times. By preventing oral health problems from developing while self-isolating, you can make sure that you stay healthy and happy while quarantining.
About the Author
Dr. Venn Peterson is passionate about helping his patients by providing them with high-quality and thorough dental care. He regularly completes continuing education courses to stay up-to-date with all aspects of dentistry. Although he isn’t currently taking patients, someone is at the office answering questions about billing and scheduling from Monday through Thursday, 9am to 12pm. For questions, you can call 360-459-4420.