How Does Oral Hygiene Affect the Severeness of Covid-19?
In December 2019, the first case of coronavirus was identified in Wuhan, China. The virus is highly contagious, and it has since mutated into several deadly variants. The coronavirus majorly affects the lungs, and the virus can spread when the infected person is coughing, speaking, or sneezing.
How Is Oral Health Connected to Overall Health?
The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, and it is the entry point into the respiratory and digestive systems. Therefore, without proper hygiene, disease-causing bacteria can easily enter the body. Oral hygiene can keep bacteria load under control and prevent them from reaching levels that cause oral infections.
Symptoms And Severeness of Coronavirus
Coronavirus symptoms may be mild, moderate, severe, or critical, and some people are even asymptomatic. Risk factors that increase the severity of Covid-19 symptoms include age and underlying medical conditions like high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Common symptoms of Covid-19 include fever, chills, fatigue, worsening coughs, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some people may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, sore throat, decreased level or loss of appetite, and loss of smell or taste.
How Can Oral Health Affect the Severity of Coronavirus?
Studies show that people infected with coronavirus have an increased bacterial load in their mouths. Also, infected saliva can cause infections in the lungs. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of interbacterial exchange between the mouth and lungs, causing respiratory illnesses.
People with gum disease are at risk of infecting the bloodstream with microorganisms, thus increasing the risk of coronavirus infections. Maintaining good dental care can decrease the bacteria load in the mouth, reducing the risk of diseases.
How To Maintain Proper Oral Health?
There are things you can do to ensure you maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of infections. Make sure to follow these tips to take good care of your mouth and overall health.
Brush Twice Daily
It is best to brush your teeth twice a day, especially before bed. Brushing can get rid of microorganisms and plaque that accumulate during the day.
Brush Properly
The way you brush is as important as how often you brush. Plaque buildup can harden, causing calculus and gingivitis. Take your time to remove plaque by brushing in gentle circular motions.
Focus On Your Tongue
Plaque can build up on the tongue, causing mouth odor and other oral health problems. While brushing your teeth, ensure you gently brush your tongue as well.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride provides a protective barrier over the teeth. Not only does fluoride protect the teeth from decay, but it also fights germs
Floss Daily
Flossing once a day removes food stuck between the teeth, stimulates the gums, lowers inflammation, and reduces plaque. It is best to use ready-to-use dental floss for your teeth.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash is ideal for reaching areas in and around the gums that brushing and flossing may not reach. Other benefits of using a mouthwash include reducing the amount of acid in the mouth and remineralizing your enamel. There are several types of mouthwash available on the market. Consult your dentist about the most suitable dental care products for you.
Drink More Water
Drinking sufficient water, especially after a meal, can help wash away the adverse effects of acidic and sticky foods and beverages in between brushes.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy fruits and vegetables nourish the body with fiber and exercise the jaw.
Limit Sugary Foods
The body converts sugar to acid in the mouth, and this acid can erode the tooth enamel which causes cavities. You don’t need to avoid sugary foods altogether but try to be mindful of your consumption levels.
Visit A Dentist Regularly
Dental examinations help a dentist identify oral health problems early. A dentist will also clean your teeth professionally to remove plaque and tartar. It is best to visit a dental office at least every six months.
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Your oral health can affect the severity of coronavirus symptoms. Observing the oral health measures discussed above can help reduce the bacterial load in your mouth and reduce your risk of oral infections. Don’t forget to visit a dental office for regular dental examinations and cleanings for optimal oral health.