To slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melbourne Mayor Kathy Meehan strongly encourages all residents to stay home, stay safe, and stay connected. Like much of the world, many of us now find ourselves at home under quarantine or self-isolation—including your Melbourne dentist. Since all non-emergency dental care is to be postponed until social distancing orders are lifted, it’s more important than ever to protect your oral health. Here are six easy tips that will help keep your smile healthy throughout quarantine.
1.) Keep Up Your Dental Routine
It’s likely that your daily life looks much different than it did in the beginning of the year. Keeping up a regular routine amidst the changes helps to retain a sense of normalcy. Continuing to brush your teeth twice a day is a great way to care for your smile and help keep your mind at ease.
2.) Don’t Forget to Floss
You may find yourself waking up and going to bed at unusual times now that you’re spending most of your time in one place. You may be tempted to skip your regular flossing if you’re tired during your dental routine. However, regular flossing is your best defense against gum disease, so keep at it!
3.) Brush Your Tongue Too
Do you always remember to clean your tongue as well as your teeth and gums? While you may forget this oral hygiene habit, the people you’re quarantining with will certainly notice your resulting bad breath!
4.) Conserve Your Toothpaste
To limit your trips outside, it’s important to conserve the dental products you have. If you use more than a pea-sized drop of toothpaste every session, you’re using too much!
5.) Mind Your Munching
The last thing you need during quarantine is a cavity, so do everything you can to avoid mindlessly snacking or stress eating. Even healthy snacks like fruit can increase your risk of tooth decay if you graze on them throughout the day.
6.) Take Some Time to Teach Your Kids
Are you spending a lot more time with your children these days? Try taking some time to teach them about the importance of great oral health. Your new daily schedule may give you more time to focus on your little one’s brushing and flossing habits and help them make the most of their dental routine. The healthy habits you establish with them during quarantine can set them up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles.
About the Author
Since 1996, Dr. Beverly Rose of Exceptional Dentistry in Melbourne, FL has been providing excellent dentistry that meets and exceeds expectations. The health and wellbeing of you and your loved ones has always been her top priority, which is why she’s strongly encouraging all her patients to stay home and stay healthy. She firmly believes that great at-home oral hygiene is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, especially during quarantine! If you have questions or concerns about taking care of your smile at home, feel free to contact her via her website or at (321) 259-4666.