How To Look After Your Teeth Post-Lockdown

Written By Kassandra Foreman / Reviewed By Ray Spotts

During the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions there was a decrease in dental care received, and as the lockdowns are lifted there has been a toll on the teeth of many people.

As habits changed and people adapted to their change in circumstances, there may have been an increase in sugar or alcohol, a decrease in healthy eating, and some may even have skipped brushing their teeth more often since they were covered with a mask or not leaving home anyway.

This has left a population with higher levels of plaque buildup, weakened enamel and fewer fillings completed, so cavities are still present. Stress responses such as teeth grinding and clenching, and poor food choices also increased during the recent lockdowns and now it is time to start repairing some of that damage and caring for our teeth again.

Twice yearly dental appointments

Those yearly or twice yearly appointments are even more important now, and it’s time to book your next cleaning and dental exam. This will clear off all the buildup on the teeth and offer your dentist an opportunity to check on cavities, look for any signs of oral cancer, and to create a treatment plan as needed to get your smile healthy again.

Repairing fillings

Any fillings that have been put off should now be repaired. This process can be done fairly quickly and if there are multiple cavities in one area you may be able to have a few filled at one appointment. Where teeth have been cracked or chipped there are treatments available to improve them and correct the concerns with fillings, crowns, and even extraction where required.

Protection for teeth grinding

People who have discovered they tend to grind or clench their teeth may find that now is the ideal time to get a night guard. These are worn during the night and can be used when stressed to protect the teeth from the damage caused by teeth rubbing together. Often covered under dental insurance these can help to reduce headaches, jaw pain, and tooth pain.

Brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing teeth is the main way to keep them clean and clear of any buildup, and this must be continued at least twice a day. Brushing gently after each meal can help protect the enamel and keep teeth healthy, but it is also important to monitor sugar intake and how much alcohol or caffeine is consumed. Each of these can lead to an increase in cavities, weakened enamel, and staining.

Brush your gums too

It is also necessary to ensure that the gums are brushed and kept clean, as food particles stuck between gums and teeth can lead to irritation and eventually infection. The gums should be rinsed after each meal, and any drink other than water, as well as brushed gently. It is important to use a soft bristled brush to avoid removing weakened enamel or irritating the gums.

Looking for a 100% all-natural liquid tooth oil and mouth rinse? Check out OraMD Original Strength and OraMD Extra Strength. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral care, skincare, body care and foot care. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list. 

Written By:

Kassandra Foreman has been writing freelance for five years now and enjoys learning about new things to write about. When not writing she teaches yoga and meditation with a focus on health and fitness.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.