Dental Issues During COVID-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a disease that mainly affects the lungs and airways. It can cause mild to severe illness. Symptoms can include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and muscle aches. Some people may have diarrhea and vomiting as well. These symptoms typically start mild and get progressively worse. Some people may have mild symptoms that don’t last very long, while others will develop severe symptoms that require hospitalization.

How Does COVID 19 Affect My Oral Health?

The CDC warns that the coronavirus can infect the mouth and throat. This infection can cause mouth ulcers and inflamed gums. As oral health is already closely linked to overall health, this infection can further compromise your body’s immune system.

Here are the major dental issues that are on the rise due to COVID-19 disease and its aftermath: 

• Dry mouth

A side effect of the COVID-19 virus is dry mouth. The infection causes a reduction in saliva production. Saliva plays an important role in fighting cavities and gum disease. Saliva is the body’s natural defense against tooth decay because it helps wash away food particles, neutralizes acids, and creates the right pH balance in the mouth. Without enough saliva, bacteria are able to flourish on the tooth’s surface, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Hence, it’s important to stay hydrated and use a fluoride rinse.

• Tooth loss

Tooth loss is a common issue during COVID-19. Patients may experience tooth loss due to weakened immune systems from COVID-19.

Patients may also have cavities due to dry mouth. They may also experience tooth loss due to teeth grinding that typically occurs when patients experience anxiety or stress. Patients may want to consider wearing mouth guards or protective splints to protect their teeth. You can talk to the dentist in Fort Smith, AR, about treatment options. Restorative dentistry treatments by your dentist, Fort Smith, can help restore oral function and aesthetics.

• Tooth decay

With so many people staying home, it can be easy to neglect your dental care. So, while it’s important to make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene at home and keeping up your regular dental cleanings, it’s still important to follow up with your dentist, Rogers, AR .

Tooth decay is the most common dental problem worldwide. It can affect people of all ages. It occurs when your teeth are exposed to too much acid, which causes the enamel to wear down. Many people who experience tooth decay don’t know it. That’s why it’s important to keep up with your dental cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can diagnose tooth decay and stop it from getting worse.

• Gum disease

Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) is an inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is mild and reversible. It’s caused by poor oral hygiene and can affect anyone. If left untreated, gingivitis can become periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. It’s irreversible and can lead to tooth loss. 

Dental Hygiene During COVID-19

Your at-home oral hygiene routine is still important during the COVID-19 outbreak. In fact, it’s more important than ever. While you’re at home, you won’t be able to have a dental cleaning as often as you once were. Your at-home dental hygiene routine should be thorough. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss at least once a day, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash after brushing.

For patients with mild symptoms, maintaining good dental hygiene is the most important way to prevent COVID-19 complications. Because COVID-19 is highly contagious, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits to prevent the spread of the virus. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as thoroughly brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing daily, can help prevent the spread of the virus.

Additionally, you should refrain from sharing personal items, such as toothbrushes, with others. You should also avoid touching your face or mouth, especially after touching surfaces in public. Avoiding touching your face or mouth can help prevent the virus from entering your system.

Get in touch with Parklane Family Dental for the best dental treatment and care. Call Dentist in Fort Smith, AR at (479) 782-0080 (Fort Smith, AR), (479) 484-0777 (Fort Smith, AR), or Dentist in Rogers, AR at (479) 273-0004 (Rogers, AR) to book an appointment or visit any of our locations.