Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) And Guarding Against Dental Problems

In addition to following all official guidelines to protect ourselves and others from the spread of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), it’s also essential to take steps to prevent the emergence of other healthcare problems.

During these stressful and challenging times, we need to do our best to eat a nutritious diet, get sufficient exercise, and maintain our overall well-being. This advice includes protecting the health of your smile.  By practicing good oral hygiene, following a diet low in sugary sweets, and avoiding harmful oral habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of dental problems or emergencies that would require leaving your home for in-office care.

Maintaining a healthy smile depends upon keeping your teeth and gums clean with a daily routine of brushing and flossing. However, because the mouth and nose areas are vulnerable entry points for Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and other infections, it’s essential to take extra precautions when performing your oral hygiene and personal care routines.

We offer the following helpful suggestions for maintaining your smile while protecting your overall health:

• Be vigilant about handwashing- Remember, it’s essential to wash your hands before brushing or flossing, and again afterward.

• Keep your toothbrush clean, safely stored, and separate- While official guidelines for toothbrush disinfection and care in response to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) virus have not yet been published, you can visit the website of the American Dental Association for established recommendations to reduce the spread of toothbrush germs.

 https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes

• Do not share toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, or any other oral healthcare devices used in the mouth.

• Make certain to clean and disinfect toothbrush containers as well as countertops and bathroom mirrors- Although the transmission of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) frequently occurs via respiratory droplets, there is also evidence to suggest that the virus remains viable for hours to days on other surfaces. The CDC offers essential guidance on cleaning and disinfecting household surfaces:

 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html#disinfect

At the office of Nicholas Tucci, DMD, we’re dedicated to helping patients maintain their ongoing health and well-being at all times, including during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any dental questions, concerns, or issues that require care.

By Nicholas Tucci, DMD

April 3, 2020