Due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, the American Dental Association (ADA) has recommended that most dental practices postpone all elective procedures until further notice. What does this mean for you? Essentially, it means your dentist is only treating emergencies. Your regular dental cleanings have been put off until the spread of the virus has slowed down. So, how can you keep your teeth clean and healthy in the meantime? An emergency dentist in Gainesville has a few tips for you.
Use the Right Brushing Technique
A quick swipe with your brush isn’t going to be enough to remove leftover food particles and plaque from your teeth. Instead, hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use short back-and-forth strokes across the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. For the backs of your front teeth, use short vertical strokes since that’s a popular spot for plaque accumulation.
Remember to Floss
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your teeth. You wouldn’t only wash 60% of your body in the shower, would you? Then don’t apply the same logic to your pearly whites. Set a reminder on your phone to clean between your teeth every night so plaque doesn’t build up in your mouth while you sleep.
Look for the ADA Seal of Approval
Not all toothpastes and flosses are created equal. To get the most out of your oral hygiene routine, look for a product with the ADA Seal of Approval. When this seal is on a tube of toothpaste, it means that the toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens your teeth and fights cavities.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Many people brush and floss as they should, but neglect to add mouthwash to their oral hygiene regimen. Mouthwash is great for cleaning the areas of your mouth that your toothbrush and floss simply can’t reach. Just be sure to look for an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol dries out your mouth, making it easier for bacteria to wreak havoc.
Switch Out Your Brush
The bristles on your toothbrush deteriorate over time, and as a result, become unable to clean as efficiently. For this reason, the ADA recommends that you purchase a new toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles appear frayed or worn. Also, replace your brush after you have been sick. Otherwise, the germs on the brush could infect you all over again.
Following these tips should be more than enough to keep your mouth healthy until your dentist in Gainesville opens up their practice for cleanings again. For more advice on improving your oral health, contact your dentist today.
About the Author
Dr. Gabriel Nossa earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida’s College of Dentistry. He has completed post-graduate training at the prestigious Dawson Academy. Although his practice is closed for regular cleanings, he is still treating dental emergencies. If you have a problem such as a broken tooth or a severe toothache, contact Dr. Nossa’s office at (352) 332-8133.