With COVID-19, many dental offices have been following the ADA recommendations and only keeping their office open for emergency cases. This means that normal dental appointments are being canceled or postponed. So what happens if you had an appointment scheduled over this time? Dr. Edward Lazer, a dentist in Baltimore, offers some tips.
Get That Appointment Rescheduled
Just because it isn’t an emergency doesn’t mean your dental appointment isn’t crucial for your oral health. Your bi-annual dental cleaning is an essential thing for the health of your teeth. Our office may have already reached out to you to get your appointment changed. If not, call us or use our online scheduling tool to get your appointment rescheduled.
Keep a Home Oral Healthcare Routine
During this trying time, it can be hard to keep up with everything we do regularly. Our daily routines have been completely upended and changed. You may be adjusting to working from home or helping your children with online learning. Things that may seem less important, like brushing and flossing as much as you need to, may fall by the wayside.
However, it’s important that you keep up brushing and flossing at least twice a day to prevent problems with tooth decay and gum disease. Set an alarm on your phone for mornings and evenings. This helps you remember to brush at least twice a day. It can help you remind others in your household as well. It doesn’t hurt to brush more often, either. If it helps you remember, brush and floss after every meal.
Watch Your Consumption
It’s unrealistic to think you’re going to eat a completely healthy and balanced diet right now. Grocery stores are offering limited hours and are struggling to keep products on the shelves. Many of us are turning to comfort foods during the crisis, which aren’t always the healthiest. But there are simple things you can do with your diet to help your oral health.
First, limit how much sugar you’re consuming. This is one of the worst things for your mouth. Sugar is the main food source for harmful oral bacteria that then give off an acidic byproduct. This byproduct eats through your dental enamel and leads to problems with tooth decay. This then leads to the need for dental fillings or a root canal. The more sugar you consume, the more byproduct being emitted in your mouth.
Also, water should be the main drink you’re consuming. It doesn’t contain hidden sugars and additives. If you’re drinking tap water, there’s a good chance it’s fortified with fluoride to strengthen the enamel on your teeth. Even if it isn’t tap water, it’s still the best choice for your mouth. It keeps it hydrated, rinsing away sugars and food particles from your smile.
Your Dentist in Baltimore
We’re here to make sure the stress of the pandemic hasn’t been causing problems with your smile. Call us or schedule an appointment for the future online!