Whether you’re repping your favorite sports team, a homemade version or a plain surgical mask, face masks have become part of our lives. While they protect us from many germs, bacteria, and the COVID-19 virus, poor oral hygiene has led to a variety of issues, dubbed “Mask Mouth,” that we’ve seen arise this year ranging from bad breath to serious dental problems, like gum disease.
Those who’ve been working from home may be brushing less and snacking more. Food gets stuck on the surface and in tiny crevasses in our teeth, which builds up into plaque leaving teeth feeling fuzzy. Brushing less often leads to cavities and gum disease.
Face coverings contribute to dry mouth as well as dehydration, as most people are drinking less water and breathing through their mouths while wearing a mask. Dry mouth causes a decrease in saliva, which naturally helps fight off and flush bacteria and food particles down that would otherwise sit on our mouth, causing bad breath or other dental issues.
When we do wear our masks and leave home, we may skip our regular oral hygiene routine because we think our masks will cover bad breath if we have any. Since most masks aren’t completely sealed, some air can get in and out, which means sour breath can get out too.
We often reuse the same mask all day or for days at a time without washing them. People also are putting their masks on unclean surfaces, such as the dash of the car or into a purse, and then placing them back on. We naturally have bacteria in our mouths, but we now have masks that are picking up extra bacteria and trapping the ones we breathe out.
What can we do if we still have to wear masks?
While we continue to wear masks, we recommend a few tips for fresh breath and healthy mouths.
First, get back on a twice daily oral care routine, even if you aren’t leaving the house every day. Like dressing up for that Zoom meeting, getting back into a routine will help you feel refreshed and ready for the day. Take the time to brush, floss and rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash before bed or heading out of the house.
Chew sugar-free gum, especially xylitol gum, which is a good anti-microbial agent. Chewing gum not only gives you fresh breath, but it also increases saliva, which helps fight off bacteria.
Sip and swish water throughout the day to ‘disturb’ the bacteria and wash them away from your teeth, tongue and gums. Drinking more water also increases your saliva production and helps prevent dry mouth.
Clean your toothbrush with a little hydrogen peroxide and throw it away if you get sick (or when it starts to fray). Wash or discard your mask after you get home each day to ensure you’re not breathing in more bacteria or the COVID virus.
Lastly, keep your regular dental check-up appointments and don’t wait until something starts to hurt before you visit your dentist. Because of face coverings and poor habits, this year many people are developing cavities or gum disease that have never before.
Practicing good oral hygiene habits should always be a part of your daily routine, but since the world is wearing masks and staying home, it’s more important than ever to make sure you don’t develop bad habits that could damage your oral health and eventually your overall health.
About the author: As an expert cosmetic and general dentist, Dr. Davis, owner of Perfect Smile Tulsa, excels in dental care that focuses on form, function and beauty. With more than 35 years of experience, Dr. Davis has received continuing education on the latest innovations in cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry, full mouth reconstruction, advanced endodontics and periodontics, Botox® and more. PerfectSmileTulsa.com
Getting ready for the holidays? Don’t forget about your smile! Mention Tulsa Lifestyle to get a special discount on your first cleaning or facial fillers and injectables. Call Perfect Smile Tulsa today at 918.863.2474 to book your appointment.