All throughout the country and throughout the world, numerous steps are being taken to combat the spread of COVID-19. You have been working from home, social distancing, and wearing a face covering wherever you go. But have you also been paying extra special attention to your smile while you’ve been at home? Your dentist shares some oral hygiene tips to help you keep your smile healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Brush and Floss Your Teeth

Remember that brushing twice and flossing at least once every single day is crucial in order to maintain optimal oral health. Always use a fluoridated toothpaste and a soft bristled toothbrush to remove food debris and plaque from your teeth. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from hard to reach areas between the teeth and beneath the gumline.

Use Mouthwash

You should rinse your mouth with mouthwash twice a day. For most people, it is best to use an alcohol-free mouthwash because alcohol can cause some negative effects on the body’s immune system. Rinsing three to four times a day with saltwater has also shown to be effective for keeping your smile healthy.

Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

Viruses and bacteria can both attach to the plastic bristles and other parts of the toothbrush. Because of this, it is best to clean your toothbrush on a regular basis. You can do this by soaking it in mouthwash combined with hydrogen peroxide before rinsing it underneath the faucet. Remember that you shouldn’t store toothbrushes together in a place where their heads could touch. This could lead to the spread of illnesses. Never share your toothbrush with another person, even if you are close.

Stay Hydrated

You should drink plenty of water throughout the day in order to prevent dry mouth. When you are dehydrated, your body won’t be able to produce saliva. Saliva is necessary for your oral health because it neutralizes harmful acids and washes away food debris and bacteria left behind in the mouth.

Eat Healthy

Consuming healthy foods helps you to keep your smile healthy. Eat plenty of calcium rich foods, like milk, yogurt, cheese, salmon, almonds, and green, leafy vegetables. Phosphorus, which is found in eggs, fish, lean meat, dairy, nuts, and beans is also important for strong, healthy teeth.

By using these tips, you can help to keep your smile, immune system, and the rest of your body in good health while the community fights back against COVID-19.

About the Practice

At Generations Dental Care, you have a well-versed team of general dentists, an endodontist, and a periodontist so patients in Concord, NH can get everything they need in one convenient location. For more information on maintaining optimal oral health or to schedule an appointment at their office in Concord, visit their website or call (603) 225-6331.