Covid may affect oral health: Expert

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 10

“Covid and SARS infections, although primarily affect the respiratory systems, also have an adverse impact on the oral health of a person. Bleeding gums, bad breath, gingivitis, sensitivity of teeth are some of the common problems that result from the onset and aftermath of the virus. Survivors have often complained about post-Covid dental health symptoms, including tooth loss, tooth decay, loosening of teeth and a sizable vascular damage,” said dental expert Dr Jeewan Jyoti.

Addressing the local residents, including the Covid survivors, here on Wednesday, she advised them to brush twice a day and floss once daily. Further, keeping the toothbrush clean was also quoted as an effective way of combating the post-Covid side-effects.

Switch to electric brush, says doctor

• Sharing some home remedies and treatments to improve and protect your dental health, Dr Jyoti recommended to switch to an electric brush, which has shown higher levels of oral hygiene. She suggested to brush thoroughly for two minutes, rinse with a non-alcohol-based mouthwash after meals for 30 seconds to tackle unwanted particles in your mouth and to reduce plaque build-up.
• Dr Jyoti recommended avoiding starchy food and drinks which leads to acid in our mouths which dissolves tooth surfaces.

Sharing some home remedies and treatments to improve and protect your dental health, Dr Jyoti recommended switch to an electric brush, which has shown higher levels of oral hygiene, brushing thoroughly for two minutes, rinse with a non-alcohol-based mouthwash after meals for 30 seconds to tackle unwanted particles in your mouth and to reduce plaque build-up.

“Oral microbiome is a key component of the immune system. Mouthwashes rich in alcohol with bactericidal components such as triclosan or other antibacterial ingredients can greatly destroy health of oral microbiome,” she further stated, while advising use of hydroxyapatite, which was less bactericidal than fluoride but rebuilds tooth enamel quality as well.

Dr Jyoti recommended avoiding starchy food and drinks. “The pandemic has instilled a sense of fear in the minds of people who often wonder whether it’s safe to visit a dentist. While it is strongly recommended to regularly visit your dentist, the current circumstances make it imperative for you to be reassured that proper safety measures are being taken in dental clinics. Sterilisation and autoclaving are of paramount importance,” she added.