During the Coronavirus, the safest thing your dentist in Arlington Heights can do is to close their doors. While this is in fact the right move, it may leave you wondering when you’ll be able to see your dentist next. How can you stay healthy while checkups and cleanings are off the table. Not to worry! Thankfully, your dentist has included some simple yet helpful tips on how you and your loved ones can keep your dental hygiene in check during COVID-19. Read on to learn more!
Proper Brushing Routine
A healthy mouth for you and your loved ones starts with a great brushing routine. Make sure that everyone is brushing twice a day for two minutes each session. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging teeth and angle the brush at 45 degrees for a thorough cleaning. If you struggle brushing for the full two minutes, remember that most electric toothbrushes have a built-in timer that will stop after the session. However, for manual brushes, you can even play a song that lasts 2 minutes to help you.
Don’t Forget About Flossing
Flossing is just as important as brushing because it cleans two sides of each tooth, removing pesky bits of food and plaque. This should be done once a day to prevent problems like cavities and gum disease. If flossing is difficult due to dexterity issues, try using pre-strung floss picks! They’re disposable, easy to use, and effective.
Make It Fun for Your Kids
Getting your kids to take care of their teeth, especially during quarantine, can be a real challenge. However, there are certain steps you can take to make it fun. Try a special crafts project like this one, or even brush your teeth with your kids to show them how the grown-ups do it. You can make dental hygiene a game that they’ll surely want to win—anything to help your kids learn the importance of oral healthcare!
Drink Lots of Water
What you eat during quarantine matters, not only for your health, but also for your smile. Sugars interact with the bacteria in your mouth to create acids that eat away at your teeth. One of the main culprits is soda and other sugary drinks. Instead, switch to water! This beverage naturally washes away plaque and food. Plus, most tap water contains fluoride, which is a mineral that helps strengthen enamel and fight off cavities. By switching to water instead of sweet beverages, you can save you and your family’s teeth from higher risks of decay.
Are you ready to stay safe at home while caring for your smile? Remember these easy steps to keep you and your loved ones healthy.
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we have a team of 5 highly trained dentists who work together to keep the Arlington Heights community healthy and smiling. That’s why they have provided these simple tips for at home oral healthcare. They can’t wait to open their doors and welcome you back! For any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (847) 577-7171.