Gum disease may be a common dental problem but when dealing with it during the COVID-19 pandemic, you may be wondering what you can do to prevent it from worsening. Since dental offices are closed throughout the country, most dentists are only seeing emergency patients. As someone with periodontal disease, you may be looking for a dentist near me in Bergenfield who can help, but since you cannot leave your home, what can do you? Let a dental professional explain a few ways you can maintain your oral health until offices begin to reopen in your area.
Brush After Every Meal
Instead of only brushing your teeth in the morning and at night before bed, take the time to brush after every meal. After all, you’re at home and can step away for a few minutes to clean your teeth, right? This will keep bad bacteria and food particles off your teeth and gums and prevent them from becoming trapped in your gum pockets. As a result, your tooth and gum health will improve, allowing your dentist in Bergenfield to offer a positive report during your next visit.
Use Mouthwash
Even if you floss and brush your teeth regularly throughout the day, you’ll want to make sure you are using mouthwash to rinse away anything that is left behind. An ADA-approved rinse will help clean your mouth of debris and leave you with a fresher, healthier breath. Not to mention, this will help to clean out your gum pockets, which can easily trap harmful bacteria.
Purchase a Toothpaste Designed to Help with Gum Disease
Toothpaste with fluoride is great for preventing cavities and strengthening tooth enamel, but if you suffer from periodontal disease, look for a product that can help. Plenty of toothpaste companies offer special products that work to combat gum disease and gingivitis. If you need help picking out the right one, don’t be afraid to call your dentist in Bergenfield. They can offer suggestions as to which one is right for your individual needs.
Allow Your Brush to Air Dry
After you’ve finished brushing your teeth, don’t store it in a drawer or cover it with one of those travel holders. Instead, place it upright in a glass so that it can air dry. The reason is that toothbrush covers can carry a host of new germs that will only end up in your mouth when you go to brush your teeth the next time. If you have gum disease, you do not need these additional bacteria infiltrating your gum pockets. Instead, just let it spend time in the open air. Just be sure to store it far away from the toilet area of your bathroom, as germs can easily travel and latch on to the bristles.
While it might seem as if you’ll never get back into the dentist’s office for another visit, trust that it will happen in time. Making sure you and other patients, as well as staff, are safe is the number one priority, so in the meantime, call your dental team for questions and do your best to keep a healthy smile while at home.
About the Author
Dr. Mariliza LaCap has more than two decades working in the oral healthcare field. Completing her Aesthetic Advantage Certification at New York University, she went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery. Since that time, she has completed a residency at Englewood Hospital and pursued advanced training in various specialties. From dental implants to periodontal disease, she can provide valuable insight on how to maintain your oral health amid the COVID-19 outbreak. If you suffer from gum disease and are worried about not seeing our team during this time, contact us at (201) 453-4863. We can offer additional help and tips to ensure your dental health stays on track.