WE CONTINUE our focus on how COVID-19 has significantly affected oral health care.
This time, we feature Dr. Kevin Hogan who raises awareness on the impact oral health on overall health.
Indeed, he encourages the practice of proper oral health care to keep immune systems functioning at maximum speed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Hogan is a dentist raising awareness in his Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, community of the importance of oral health during the coronavirus pandemic.
Research suggests oral health is linked to other, very serious health concerns such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease and that those most vulnerable to COVID-19 are also at increased risk for oral health concerns, he explains.
The most common oral health issues are preventable, he says, pointing to tooth decay, cavities and gum diseases.
Dr. Hogan points to an article recently published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggesting a link between oral health conditions like tooth decay and gum disease and mood conditions like stress, anxiety, depression and even loneliness.
According to the CDC, “the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people.
“Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety.”
These actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, it says. “Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about and your community stronger.”
Taking care of your friends and your family can be a stress reliever, but it should be balanced with care for yourself, the CDC advices.
“Helping others cope with their stress, such as by providing social support, can also make your community stronger.
“During times of increased social distancing, people can still maintain social connections and care for their mental health. Phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel socially connected, less lonely or isolated.”
Take care of your emotional health. Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
Take breaks from watching, reading or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Exercise regularly.
Get plenty of sleep.
Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media or by phone or mail.
Take care of your body.
As Dr. Hogan points out, one way of coping with stress is to stay healthy. And one way to do that is to keep your immune system at peak level.
It helps a lot that your oral health is also at maximum level.
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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
