mask and oral healthNowadays, wearing a mask has become the norm. While it protects you from coronavirus infection, it does pose some problems to your oral health. Wearing a mask every day can lead to a condition called “mask mouth.” Mask mouth is when you experience bad breath due to wearing the mask for longer hours. Mask wearing also leads to some serious oral issues such as tooth decay, bad breath, and inflammation of the gums. Masks and oral health go hand in hand, and Modern Smiles wants to help you maintain your great smile. 

Impact of masks on oral health

The mask mouth symptoms vary from one person to another; however, the common symptoms are:

  • Dry mouth occurs when you don’t have enough saliva in your mouth. A dry mouth makes it hard to swallow, eat, and speak. Dry mouth also leads to oral infections and tooth decay.
  • Bad breath can occur from a combination of dry mouth and poor oral hygiene. Wearing your mask for prolonged periods increases your chances of the combination affecting your mouth. 
  • Bleeding gums is a sign of gingivitis. When you wear a mask, it impacts the bacteria in your mouth, causing plaque build-up that can advance to gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that requires lifetime care. It can be caused by plaque buildup which damages the gums. A sign that you may have gum disease is when you have inflamed or receding gums.
  • Increased tooth decay can occur from wearing face masks. The lack of moisture in the mouth might allow bacteria to breed and cause tooth decay.

How to maintain good oral health when wearing a mask

Drinking water can be a problem when you are wearing a mask. Many people forget to hydrate, which is a risk to their oral health along with their general health. They also may neglect to keep an oral health routine that includes flossing, as there is less chance of showing their smile. There are several things you can do to maintain good oral health when wearing a mask:

  • Breathe through your nose.
  • Drink plenty of water. When drinking water, you should use a straw to avoid removing the mask. You should aim for drinking 8 cups of water daily.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene routines. Brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.
  • Avoid beverages such as alcohol and coffee because they can dehydrate.
  • Limit your intake of sugary foods.
  • Regularly change and clean your masks.
  • Schedule regular dental visits.

How a dentist can help

Since we cannot risk going out without the mask, it is crucial to keep regular dental checkups. Dentists are working to ensure your oral health is in check by providing the following services:

  • Dental cleanings to remove the plaque buildup that leads to gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Gum disease treatment to prevent bacteria from spreading and damaging your gums by doing the gum treatment.
  • Fillings and cosmetic services to restore your smile.

Make your oral health a priority by scheduling an appointment with us today. At Modern Smiles in Chicago Il, our dentists are experts in all aspects of dentistry and want you to maintain great oral health behind your mask. Schedule your appointment today at 312-500-7080.