Dental Care during COVID-19
By Kavita Ahluwalia, DDS, MPH
National, state and local authorities have directed that dentists only provide emergency care during the pandemic. Take care of your teeth and mouth and those of your loved ones by practicing good daily oral care to prevent dental problems and emergencies.
KEEPING YOUR MOUTH HEALTHY DURING THE PANDEMIC
Good daily oral care, which includes daily brushing, flossing and denture and gum care, is important to keep your mouth healthy. It is also necessary to eat a healthy diet, and stop using tobacco products to prevent dental diseases. The following tips will help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy and pain free:
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before you brush and floss your teeth or handle dentures
Wash the handle of your brush with soap and warm water before and after brushing; wipe the toothpaste tube with disinfectant every day
Do not bite your nails – not only is nail biting bad for your teeth, but the virus may enter your mouth when you bite your nails
Eat a diet low in sugars and starches; choose whole grains, proteins, vegetables and fruits. Minimize the use of juices, sodas and sweetened beverages; drink water instead
Brushing and Flossing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste
Do not store or share toothbrushes with others
Denture Care
Clean your dentures at least once a day using a denture brush and warm water
Clean your denture cup with warm water and soap and use clean water to store your denture at night
DENTAL CARE FOR PEOPLE DIAGNOSED WITH COVID-19
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with COVID-19, it is important that good daily oral care is continued with the following precautions:
Keep toothbrushes, toothpastes, floss and mouth rinses separated from the brushes/pastes/floss/rinses of those who are not-infected.
If you need to help a loved one brush or take care of their dentures:
Wear a mask/face covering and gloves (if you have them) while assisting your loved one
Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap after assisting your loved one
If your loved one cannot tolerate tooth brushing, help them use an alcohol free fluoridated mouthwash after every meal
Once you or your loved one has recovered from COVID-19 and is no longer in isolation,
Discard the toothbrush/denture brush of the infected person and disinfect their tube of toothpaste
Thoroughly clean dentures with warm water and soap. DO NOT BOIL OR PLACE DENTURES IN THE DISHWASHER
Clean denture cups with dishwashing liquid and hot water