For many people, staying inside to avoid COVID-19 and help flatten the curve has meant a major disruption in your schedule, and your daily routine. Losing your schedule could mean some issues fall on the wayside, such as brushing and flossing. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist discusses the importance of finding a new routine to care for your smile!
Making Time to Brush and Floss
Without chances to visit for routine checkups and cleanings, plaque buildup could accumulate as bacteria breaks down food particles trapped on and between the teeth. Plaque then erodes outer enamel and inflames gum tissues, increasing the risk of issues like tooth decay and gum disease. However, with routine care each day you help remove bits of food trapped in your smile, limiting the severity of plaque until we can see you again to remove it with a cleaning.
Make sure you abide by this simple schedule:
- Morning: Brush your teeth for two minutes. Use a toothpaste with fluoride and toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Night: Before bed, brush your teeth again for two minutes. Also, floss up and down each side of each tooth, moving below the gum line to remove trapped food particles a toothbrush cannot reach.
Making time for these and building them into your schedule helps keep your smile healthy, and also fights issues like dental discoloration and even bad breath!
Should I Floss After Each Meal?
At the minimum, you must floss each evening before bed. That way food particles don’t remain trapped between the teeth in the night, left for bacteria to break down and consume. However, for added protection, you could always floss after each meal.
Emergency Visits
Remember, our team is available for emergency care should you develop chipped or cracked teeth, or if you suffer from an aching tooth that could indicate a cavity or an infection. If you experience pain or damage, then please let us know. Our office will follow strict health and safety protocols to protect our patients and team members.
What About When Restrictions are Lifted?
When we can safely lift restrictions, we would love to see you for a checkup and cleaning, so we can examine your smile to see if you have any developing issues that require treatment, and to also remove plaque and tartar from your smile. Until then, please continue to brush and floss! If you have any questions, please contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Keeping Your Smile Strong?
A routine is a great way to stay on top of you and your family’s oral healthcare habits. To learn more about protecting your oral health, then schedule a consultation, call Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
