With COVID-19 spreading across the area, dental offices have been following the ADA’s recommendations to limit hours and services. Laurel Smiles Dental Care has been following its recommendation and has only been open for emergencies. So what happens if you had an appointment scheduled and it was canceled or postponed? Our dentist in Laurel, MD, offers suggestions.
Get Your Appointment Rescheduled
Even if it was a simple appointment, like your regular family dentistry checkup and cleaning, it’s still important. Bi-annual checkups and cleanings are essential for your oral health. We may have already reached out to you to get your appointment rescheduled. If not, call us or use our online scheduling tool!
Keep Up a Home Healthcare Routine
Especially if you’re missing a deep cleaning, you want to make sure you’re keeping up with your oral health at home. We know it’s a bit difficult during this time. Your daily routine has been upended. You may be adjusting to working from home or helping children with online learning. Small things can tend to fall by the wayside, even brushing and flossing.
However, it’s essential that you make time for it if you want to avoid problems with tooth decay or gum disease. Set an alarm or a reminder on your phone for mornings and evenings. This ensures that you’re brushing and flossing at least twice a day. It can also help remind other people in your household as well! If it helps you remember better, it doesn’t hurt to brush more. You can brush after every meal if that makes things easier.
Watch What You’re Consuming
During the pandemic, it’s hard to eat a fully healthy and balanced diet. Grocery stores are offering limited hours and they’re struggling with keeping stock on the shelves. Many of us are also turning to comfort foods during this difficult time, which often aren’t the healthiest. But there are little things you can do with your diet to help with your oral health.
First, try to cut back your sugar intake. Sugar is one of the worst things for your teeth. Harmful oral bacteria use it as their main food source and then release an acidic byproduct. This byproduct eats through the enamel on the outside of your teeth. This is what leads to problems with tooth decay and cavities. The more sugar you eat, the more this byproduct is released into your mouth.
Also, make water the primary thing you drink. It doesn’t contain hidden sugars and additives like other drinks can. If it’s tap water, it’s also most likely fortified with fluoride, which strengthens your tooth enamel. Even if it isn’t, it’s the best choice to keep your mouth hydrated. This helps rinse away sugar and food particles from your smile.
Your Dentist in Laurel, Maryland
If you have a dental emergency, please call us immediately. After the pandemic restrictions are eased, we’ll be here to make sure the stress of the pandemic hasn’t impacted your smile. Call us or schedule an appointment online for the future!