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Coronavirus – nose and mouth masks are the primary preventive measure against the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Staying in them for many hours may have a negative effect on the condition of the oral cavity. Therefore, it is very important not to neglect the hygiene of the place during the coronavirus pandemic. We should also remember about regular visits to the dentist.
- Wearing masks protects against the spread of the coronavirus
- Doctors and scientists emphasize that the correct fit of the mask to the face is more important than the material
- Long-term wearing of masks, regardless of their type, can cause dry mouth
- Such conditions are conducive to the development of gingivitis, bad breath, and caries
- Do you want to live longer? Make a simple test and find out how!
- You can find more such stories on the TvoiLokony home page
Masks against COVID-19 and dental health
Already last year, the first reports of a significant increase in dental problems among patients who regularly care for their teeth appeared in the American medical press. Dentists began to suspect it was due to hours of wearing masks to protect against the coronavirus, causing dry mouth. Even in non-epidemic conditions, it contributes to the formation of gingivitis, bad breath and caries. An appropriate level of moisture in the oral cavity is extremely important for maintaining the balance of the bacterial flora.
Dr. Anna Wesołowska, a dentist, explains that the right amount of saliva is necessary for the proper functioning of natural protective processes. First of all, it helps to “wash” debris from the tooth surface and neutralizes the effects of acids. It creates a protective barrier, ensures the correct pH, which limits the harmful metabolism of fungi and bacteria.
- Read also: These people do not need to wear a mask. The ministry expanded the list
Masks against COVID-19 and bacteria
Wearing face masks also changes the way you breathe. Most often, under the hood, instead of through the nose, we draw air through our mouth. This additionally affects the faster drying of the mucous membranes in the oral cavity and thus creates an environment favorable for the development of various pathogens.
It is not without significance that the mask gathers bacteria, viruses and fungal spores that can penetrate the mouth. Often the risk of infection increases when it is not changed appropriately. The problem that is felt most quickly is the change in the smell from the mouth. It is caused by the presence of anaerobic bacteria which produce volatile sulfur compounds. Eating habits, especially excessive consumption of sweets, sodas, crisps, and other pleasurable snacks also promote the growth of bacteria that affect the smell of your breath. Research shows that no matter what we eat, the frequency of brushing our teeth and rinsing the mouth remains the same.
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The lack of an adequate level of moisture and insufficient level of saliva causes, inadequate hygiene, the formation of gingivitis. Bacteria cause them to bleed, swell and ache. Doctor Anna Wesołowska encourages you to immediately consult your dentist in such cases and verify your hygiene habits. Untreated inflammation, apart from being painful, not very aesthetic, causing bad breath, may also become the beginning of paradentosis.
During a pandemic, we should not give up visiting the dentist, and especially scrupulously follow the rules of daily hygiene. The masks do not exempt from cleaning, rinsing the mouth and flossing (preferably after each meal). Professional sandblasting and fluoridation once a year. If the discomfort caused by insufficient saliva production begins to be felt, it is worth reaching for lozenges or saliva replacement spray products available in pharmacies.
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A very good prophylactic effect is the intake of probiotics containing the lactobacilli lactobacillus spp. Conducive to maintaining the proper pH. It turns out that the microbiome in the human mouth is very complex. There are almost 700 species of bacteria that have a similar mechanism of action to intestinal bacteria. That is why it has been observed that the use of probiotics reduces the aggressive action of harmful microorganisms that contribute to the formation of caries. Especially the bacteria responsible for it Streptococcus mutans, as well as many other causes of periodontal disease and halitosis.
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Probiotics have only recently been used in dentistry, but they seem to be an effective preventive tool. It is very important to maintain the proper production of saliva to consume the right amount of water throughout the day. Proper hydration of the body also has a positive effect on the condition of the oral cavity and reduces the discomfort associated with wearing the mask.
Do you want to take care of proper oral hygiene? Don’t forget about the rinse aid! We recommend the herbal mouthwash Sylveco, which you can find at Medonet Market.
Also read:
- Why is it not allowed to use the same mask several times?
- The fit of the COVID-19 mask is more important than the material it is made of
- FFP2 mask – what does it look like? How long can you wear it? [WE EXPLAIN]
- What is the risk of untreated caries?
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