Ohio is under a strict stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 coronavirus. And at Olentangy Modern Dental, we’re doing our part to protect our staff, and help slow the spread of this virus. Currently, Dr. Amy Gavin is only seeing patients for serious dental emergencies, and our team is not providing routine preventive care like six-month oral exams and teeth cleanings.
Wondering how you can keep your teeth and your family’s teeth healthy until you can see Dr. Gavin for preventive care? Follow these at-home preventive dentistry tips for quarantine!
1: Start Brushing Three Times Per Day!
We always recommend brushing at least two times a day for two minutes. But if you have some extra time while you’re stuck at home and want to make sure that your teeth are in tip-top shape, consider brushing three times per day!
Brushing once after breakfast, after lunch, and before bed will ensure that you remove the most possible food debris and bacteria from your mouth, and help keep your mouth healthy.
Remember to use a fluoride-based toothpaste, and clean your teeth thoroughly during every brushing. We also recommend getting an electric toothbrush, as this can help you clean your teeth more thoroughly.
2: Get Into The Habit Of Flossing Every Day
Only about 40% of Americans floss every day, and 20% “never” floss. But if you’re stuck at home during quarantine, there’s no excuse for not learning how to floss properly, and incorporating daily flossing into your dental care routine.
If you don’t know how to floss properly, here’s a quick guide.
- Grab about 18-24 inches of floss from the box
- Wrap a few inches of floss around one of your index or middle fingers, and wind the remaining floss around the finger of your opposite hand
- Hold about 1 inch of floss between your thumbs and index/middle fingers. Gently move it between your teeth using a rocking motion
- Curl the floss into a “c” shape and rock it up and down each side of the tooth you’re cleaning. Then, remove the floss from between your teeth, unwrap a new section, and repeat until all of your teeth are clean
Need a visual guide? Take a look at this video for a few more handy tips.
3: Eat A Healthy Diet
Foods that are good for your body are also good for your teeth, and should make up most of your diet. Whole grains, lean meats, fresh vegetables and fruit, and dairy products like yogurt are great for your dental health.
And in contrast, treats and unhealthy foods are bad for both your body and your teeth. To keep your smile healthy, limit your consumption of candy, starchy snacks like chips, processed foods, and beverages like fruit juice, soda, and alcohol. Consider brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after you eat or drink these foods and beverages to keep your teeth healthy.
Follow These Simple Tips To Keep Your Teeth Healthy & Strong
While we can’t see you for preventive care in Olentangy, Lewis Center, Delaware, and Powell right now, these simple dental care tips should ensure that your smile stays healthy until you can see Dr. Gavin for your next oral exam and teeth cleaning. And remember, Olentangy Modern Dental is always open for patients experiencing dental emergencies. If you think you need immediate dental care, contact us at (740) 200-5100 to get the treatment you need.