Maintaining Oral Health During Quarantine

24 March 2020

Given the extreme impact the global pandemic, COVID-19, is having on society, Etwall Dental Practice has decided to no longer offer routine dental care, after discussions with NHS England and The Department of Health. The practice will be doing its best to ensure patient travel is limited, with alternative arrangements being made on a case-by-case basis.

Etwall Dental Practice will continue providing care for non-controllable dental pain but remain limited on the dental procedures that can be offered, even for emergency patients.

With many people now unable receive check-ups, Etwall Dental Practice would like to offer some stay-at-home tips for those looking to maintain or even improve upon their oral health.

Maintain your oral health during quarantine

For an unknown amount of time, access to dental care is likely to more difficult than usual. To ensure your smile is maintained throughout self-isolation, take a look at some of our recommended actions below.

Maintain your routine

With many people now working from home, quarantine offers the perfect time to ensure your daily oral health routine is maintained. Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day, morning and night and make sure you don’t eat anything after brushing for the final time. 

Be wary of your diet

Equally as important as hygiene is your diet. Each time you eat sugary foods or drink soft drinks, be sure to either rinse your mouth out with water or better yet, brush your teeth immediately afterwards.

Use Fluoride

A common ingredient found in toothpaste and mouthwash, many experts believe fluoride helps prevent cavities. With that said, there are a lot of dental products which do not contain fluoride, so be sure check out the product description before you make your next purchase.

Don’t neglect your tongue

Whilst it’s easy to focus your attention on your teeth and gums, it’s important to take care of your tongue, too. Plaque will often build up on your tongue, leading to bad mouth odour as well as potential oral health problems. Be sure to gently brush your tongue each time you brush your teeth.

Remember to floss

Flossing is not just a way of reaching food that may be stuck between your teeth. It’s a way of stimulating the gums, reducing plaque and lowering inflammation in the area. We’re aware that flossing may prove difficult for young children or those with arthritis, so be sure to look out for ready-to-use dental flossers.

Teach your children

With an abundance of time now spent at home, there is opportunity to teach your child a proper oral routine they can maintain for life. Ensure your children are eating crunchy fruits and vegetables, as they contain healthier fibre and will help build strength in teeth. Spend time brushing your teeth with your children, to ensure they are practicing the proper technique and ultimately, ensure they are brushing their teeth at least twice a day.

For more tips on how to maintain and improve oral health for children, take a read of Etwall Dental Practice’s recently published blog on must-know tips.

We’re aware of how difficult this time will be, not only for our patients but for society in general. Etwall Dental Practice are still available to contact on 01283 733391, where we will try to give self-help advise at home.

To protect not only our dental experts but the local community too, we ask that you do not travel to the practice unless you have a confirmed appointment by one of our team. Whilst we love chatting to our lovely community please contact us by telephone and do not enter the building.

From all at Etwall Dental Practice, we wish you all the best. Stay safe and stay home.