Whether you’re deep-cleaning or de-cluttering, spring is a great time to make sure your next dental cleaning appointment is scheduled. It’s more important than ever to make sure your health is in tip-top shape, and your oral health is more important than you think, but many are still wary of going to the dentist for fear of contracting COVID-19.
If COVID is spread through the mouth, isn’t the dentist's office dangerous to be in right now?
Actually, your dental office should be much safer than a trip to the grocery store.
Our office wears maximum PPE and while COVID-19 is spread primarily through droplets from the mouth or nose, most dental procedures use a suction device to capture the aerosols. To eradicate any lingering aerosols a special compressed disinfectant formula is sprayed in the air and on any surfaces in between each patient. Then all surfaces are wiped down in each room twice.
How often do I need my teeth cleaned?
Typically we recommend that those without periodontal (gum) disease should get a cleaning at least every six months, and those with gum disease should receive a cleaning every three to four months. Your dentist and hygienist will ultimately recommend the best cleaning schedule for your needs.
My teeth don’t hurt and I brush every day, can’t I wait a few more months?
While brushing and flossing are great daily habits, they don’t take the place of a professional dental cleaning. Our mouths and teeth pick up bacteria that get stuck in places toothbrushes and floss can’t reach - underneath our gums and in between our teeth, creating pockets for unwelcome bacteria to set up house. These squatters need to be rousted and cleaned out periodically by your dental hygienist.
Your mouth is your first line of defense in many diseases so it makes sense to keep it healthy. Too much bacteria in your mouth can cause stained or yellow teeth, plaque, cavities and gum disease. Gum disease is an active infection that stresses out your immune system and creates inflammation throughout the body. More recently, there is increasing evidence to support that those with gum disease are more likely to contract a more serious case of COVID-19. Now is not the time to let an active infection linger in your body without proper treatment.
I never had cavities before, why do I suddenly now have them?
Over the last year, we’ve seen many people develop cavities or other dental issues they never had before. This could be because you’re working from home and may only brush your teeth once a day, before bed. You also may have skipped your last cleaning, which is when we can spot issues before they become serious problems. This year also has caused a lot of stress, which can lead to poorer food habits, such as more snacking or eating surgery foods. These issues in conjunction with wearing a mask all day is a dental combo referred to as “mask-mouth” and can cause many dental issues.
Now, more than ever, is the time to take control over your health. Make time to schedule your teeth cleaning. Ask your dentist or hygienist to explain the status of your oral health and what steps need to be taken to improve it. Brushing and flossing are basic steps toward a healthy mouth, but getting your cleanings regularly can help improve your teeth’s appearance and more importantly help screen for more serious problems. It’s safe to visit your dentist (with your mask) and more important now than ever.
