Tips for Maintaining Oral Health at Home

Maintaining good oral health is just as important as ever, especially during these uncertain times while we stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Below are some tips for you and your family to practice at home to help keep your smile in tip top shape until we can see you again.

• Maintain Your Oral Health Routine: Brush your teeth for two minutes every morning and night using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush using short circular strokes, paying special attention to the gum line.  Don’t forget to floss daily as well.  Using a fluoride mouthwash many also help curb the development of cavities.
• Replace Your Toothbrush: We recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are looking spread out and worn. If you or a family member has been sick, it’s a good idea to replace your toothbrush, including the toothbrushes of others in your family as soon as you start feeling better to prevent the spread of germs. Remember, keep your toothbrush separated from other’s brushes.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Be mindful of excess snacking. Frequent consumption of foods and drinks high in sugar or processed carbohydrates, like crackers, candy, soda, and juices can lead to an increased risk of developing cavities.
• Drink Water: Drink plenty of water throughout day. Drinking water helps keep you hydrated and washes food particles and sugar off your teeth. Avoid sipping on soda, juice, and sparkling flavored water all day long as this can increase the risk of developing a cavity. 
• Manage Stress: Be aware of any unhealthy habits you may turn to in times of stress. Avoid chewing on ice, pen caps, and/or fingernails, using your teeth as a tool to open packages, or grinding and clenching as these can potentially cause damage to your teeth. The last thing you want is to chip a tooth!
• Dental Emergencies: If you are an existing patient experiencing a dental emergency, please call us! We are committed to our patients and remain open for dental emergencies. Our phones are being answered and team members are available to answer your questions and provide instructions for receiving emergency care. Utilizing technology, Teledentistry visits are also available with our Doctors if the dental emergency is of significant concern. For your safety and the safety of health care providers, please do not visit an urgent care clinic or an emergency room for your dental care needs.
• Catch-up On Any Missed Appointments: If you had an appointment for a dental cleaning or treatment that needed to be postponed while we all stay at home to do our part to stop the spread of COVID-19, make it a priority to reschedule that appointment as soon as possible when our practices reopen for regular care.

Staying healthy is so important right now and good oral hygiene is an essential component of overall health. We hope you and your loved ones remain healthy during these uncertain times and we look forward to the opportunity to care for you again in the near future.