The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a delay in getting the right dental supervision for many families. Since in-person appointments to the doctor’s clinic are a risky affair right now, it is becoming more important for people to understand how to take care of their dental hygiene.
The oral cavity is the portal for the virus’s entry into the human body, it is sensible to state that, just like hand hygiene, oral hygiene is essential in reducing the chances of getting an infection from the oral cavity, and thus, its transfer to the upper and lower respiratory tract.
Read on to know how to take proper dental care at home during this time of pandemic, an in-depth guide by renowned dentist Dr Riya Soni.
Transmission routes of 2019-nCoV and controls in dental practice
Due to the characteristics of dental settings, the risk of cross-infection may be high between dental practitioners and patients. Due to the unique characteristics of dental procedures where a large number of droplets and aerosols could be generated, the standard protective measures in daily clinical work are not effective enough to prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially when patients are in the incubation period, are unaware they are infected or choose to conceal their infection.
Dental care during coronavirus: Here is what you need to know
72-year-old Avinash Chander Sharma had scheduled tooth extraction, following which he had to get implants. But the lockdown halted his plan. He is in pain but too worried to get a dental procedure done in a hospital during the pandemic. 12-year-old Ganeve has palate expanders in her mouth, post which she was supposed to get her braces. But the lockdown shelved the plan and now she has to bear with the expanders for longer now. Dentists are opening their clinics with protective gear and necessary precautions but people are scared to venture out.
While it is okay for patients wanting a crown, regular cleaning to put their plans on hold, there are certain procedures that should not be delayed. As we all know COVID-19 isn’t going anywhere and this is the new normal. So we have to learn to live with it.
Not only for patients, but dental procedures can also be risky for the dentist as well. Since many procedures use high-pressure sprays of water and air, it can actually spread the aerosols from a positive patient in the room.
But most dentists are worried about the side effects of delayed dental care. An unattended cavity might have reached the stage of the root canal or even tooth removal. A removed tooth that had to be implanted may be causing bone loss. Some degree of risk is also involved in the case of unaddressed gum issues. It can lead to inflammation, which can lower down one’s immunity. For those who have issues that need immediate care should immediately book a tele appointment with the dentist.
Home remedies
Cold Compress – The use of ice packs is one of the simplest techniques to relieve pain. Apply the ice directly on the affected tooth externally on the cheek to numb the area.
Garlic – For thousands of years, garlic has been known for its medicinal properties. Crush a garlic clove to make it a paste and apply it to the affected area. You may add a little salt to it or slowly chew the Clove of garlic.
Vanilla – Vanilla extract contains alcohol which helps to numb the pain. It’s antioxidant properties also make it an effective healer and can apply some to the affected area.
Alcohol – For the ones who love the taste of it, alcohol on a cotton swab quickly numbs the area and relieves you from pain.
Wheat Grass – Wheatgrass has countless healing properties. It heals the body inside out. It has high chlorophyll content which fights bacteria well. Use wheatgrass juice as an instant mouthwash.
Tips to take care of your dental health
- Do not skip brushing twice a day
- You must use a mouthwash after every meal to tackle unwanted particles in your mouth. Rinse for 30 seconds before you spit out
- Massage your gums in a circular motion to ensure gums are healthy Do not skip the process of tongue cleaning. You can clean it with the help of cotton and glycerine Ensure you visit your dentist – but due to the pandemic, it is important to ensure maximum oral hygiene
Home remedies for mouth ulcers
- A fistful of overnight soaked dry black grapes should be taken early morning on an empty stomach.
- Liquorice powder along with ghee for local application
- Local application of catechu
- Honey and ghee in unequal proportions to be rubbed gently over the ulcer
- Gargling with honey and water mixture
- Gargling with black tea or black coffee(cold)
- Gargling with a cold decoction prepared of neem and acacia
Author Bio: Dr Riya Soni is from Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat. She has completed her BDS from Pacific Dental College, Udaipur in 2018. Currently, she is practicing in her hometown. For her, dentistry is an art form and she gets happiness in creating beautiful and healthy smiles.
