From social distancing and stay-at-home orders to face coverings and extensive sanitation, the current pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives. Although the novel Coronavirus has ushered in a “new normal” for the majority of 2020, experts are still conducting research daily on the intricacies of prevention and treatment.
Until concrete findings are published, many continue to question which activities are considered safe or dangerous. In fact, patients across the U.S. are delaying their routine dental visits in the name of COVID-19. However, your dentist in Reston is here to share three reasons you shouldn’t put off your oral health during this time.
POOR ORAL HEALTH MEANS A POOR IMMUNE SYSTEM
While a strong immune system is always important, it is vital amid a pandemic. Although daily vitamins and a nutrient-rich diet can do wonders for your health, your oral care also plays an instrumental role in protecting your immune system. If poor oral care becomes routine, then bacteria can make a home in the crevices of your mouth before entering the bloodstream.
From there, it can spread to your heart and wreak havoc on your body. Plus, infection in your mouth distracts your immune system from focusing on other areas of your body, which can leave you vulnerable to getting sick. Therefore, you must prioritize a proper oral hygiene that includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash regularly!
DENTISTRY ISN’T AN ELECTIVE PROCEDURE
Did you know that roughly 48% of Americans don’t visit the dentist at least once a year? Whether it is a dental phobia or jam-packed schedule, it is crucial to remember that routine dental visits aren’t an elective procedure. In fact, Purnima Kumar, a professor of periodontology at Ohio State University says, “They’re important to your mouth health, as well as to the health of the rest of the body.”
Bi-yearly visits can detect early warning signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities, as well as non-dental health concerns (like diabetes and osteoporosis). Therefore, you must continue to prioritize your annual visits to ensure your oral and overall health is in tip-top shape.
YOUR DENTIST IS AN EXPERT IN INFECTION CONTROL
Even before COVID-19, your dentist followed extensive infection control and best practices to prevent cross-contamination. Today, they are implementing additional measures to ensure the safety of both their staff and their patients. Upon recommendation from the CDC, you can expect the below measures to be enforced at your next visit:
- Social distancing guidelines (i.e., virtual waiting rooms, contactless greetings, etc.).
- Additional personal protective equipment (i.e., face shields, shoe coverings, etc.).
- Significant sanitation measures (i.e., cleaning between each appointment, deep cleanings each evening, etc.).
As the world continues to battle COVID-19, we must all do our part in flattening the curve. That is why your dentist is dedicating their time, skill, and resources to provide you peace-of-mind at your appointment. That way, you can get the oral care you need without worrying about exposure and transmission during this pandemic.
