PEOPLE should be protected from the coronavirus at all times.
And at all times, they should also have protection from oral health diseases.
This twin concern has become all too obvious in these new normal times. True, protection from all viruses and diseases has always been a concern of dentists.
What is the new normal is that oral health care has been compromised by the lack of attention in these pandemic times.
Dentists now require prior screening before accepting patients for appointments. Social distancing and safety and hygiene protocols are in place to protect patients and the dental team. As much as possible, routine procedures like scaling and cleaning are put on hold as they generate aerosols that may contain the coronavirus. Only emergency cases are top priorities.
And so it is that good oral hygiene starts and may remain at home. These days, self-care is key to maintaining oral health. It is more important than ever.
The dentist now proactively advise, educate, and motivate patients to improve their daily oral hygiene routines.
We now advice our patients how to stay healthy at home and take very good care of oral health.
By mobile devices and social media, patients can be aware on how to maintain oral health care at home – based on the advice of the dentist.
That includes our mantra – to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, brush your teeth regularly, at least twice each and every day, ideally after every meal.
Brush your teeth for at least two minutes and clean all tooth surfaces where possible.
Replace the toothbrush about every three months or before the bristles become worn and splayed.
There’s another important reason for replacing a toothbrush. To prevent re-infection, it is recommended that a toothbrush is replaced after you have been cured of a fever, cough or other ailments.
Removing the plaque that covers the tooth enamel is important to prevent gum disease. This can be done through proper brushing and using toothpaste with fluoride.
Spit but don’t rinse immediately so that the fluoride protection remains for a while.
Eat well. Have your cake and eat it too. However, avoid excessive and constant consumption of sugared food and drinks.
Sugar gives nourishment to bacteria that wreak havoc on teeth and that may lead to cavities.
Follow the advice of the World Dental Federation: “A good oral hygiene routine, regular dental check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are crucial for protecting oral health and maintaining general health.”
Remember, good oral health habits maintain good oral health at home – and this is what we all need as dental health care is restricted by the pandemic.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the UE College of Dentistry, former Dean of the College of Dentistry, National University, past president and honorary fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy, and honorary fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists. Honorary Life Member of Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515./PN
