Next Smile
  • Categories
    • 3D Printing
    • Dental Implants
    • Dentures
    • Health
  • About NextSmile
  • Ask an Expert

Select Page

Why you should go to the dentist, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Posted by Kathryn O’Brien | Health

Why you should go to the dentist, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

As found in our recent survey, feelings of concern about potentially catching Covid-19 at the dentist lead many patients to cancel their dental appointments, but maintaining good dental hygiene is extremely important for your health. The risk of death from the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is of high concern.

People with inflamed, swollen or bleeding gums are up to 70% more likely to contract COVID-19

A recent UK study found that people with inflamed, swollen or bleeding gums are up to 70% more likely to contract COVID-19 and die. The research found that not only pre-existing conditions like heart disease or diabetes mean an increased risk, but also bad oral hygiene. Contracting an infection is
far more likely when you have poor oral health.

As the coronavirus infection affects the mouth and throat, good oral hygiene is a first and important step to preventing SARS-CoV-2. Inflammations in the gums can weaken the immune system. The study shows that patients with gingivitis and a positive corona test compared to the high risk group, were
70% more likely to face a risk of death. In addition to wearing a mask and keeping your distance, oral hygiene is an effective measure against an infection.

It is important to routinely brush your teeth – cavities can play a crucial role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2! Coronavirus is transmitted via the mouth in saliva and aerosols when breathing, speaking or coughing. In another study, it shows that there is a link between the viral load in the oral cavity and the corona disease. The higher the number of germs in the patient’s mouth, the more difficult it is to overcome the illness, and comes with a high risk of transmission to other people.

Prevention strengthens the immune competence at the point of origin of the viral infection, and helps to avoid the infection or to soften its impact.

Dental hygiene strengthens the immune competence

In the British Dental Journal, Prof. Martin Addy (University of Bristol) affirmed that it is now more than ever important to brush your teeth at least twice a day – especially those who are in the high risk groups. And a statement from the President of the German specialist society DGZMK Prof. Dr. Roland Frankenberger (University Marburg) on the importance of brushing your teeth concurs. Prevention strengthens the immune competence at the point of origin of the viral infection, and helps to avoid the infection or to soften its impact.

“A patient with periodontal disease has subgingival gingivitis. This means that he – often unnoticed – has an open wound of around 40 square centimeters in the oral cavity.” says Frankenberger.

Unlikely to become infected with Covid-19 at the dentist

It is very unlikely that you will become infected with COVID-19 at the dentist. Oral hygiene is not just about brushing your teeth at home. Even the regular prophylaxis appointments and professional teeth cleaning at the dentist are an integral part. Therefore, it’s important to maintain your dentist appointments during the corona pandemic.

Consequential damage to teeth and gums caused by missing necessary treatments can be avoided through regular appointments. Your dental practice offers maximum protection against the coronavirus with their high hygiene standards inspected by the health authorities on a regular basis. In fact, there are hardly any other industries in which the surfaces are so regularly disinfected and hand sanitiser is used, with gloves, visors and mouth-nose protection as part of daily standard equipment. In the course of the corona pandemic, hygiene standards tightened significantly. According to current information, receiving treatment at the dentist either with a treatment team or socially distancing from other patients does not contribute towards an increased Covid-19 infection.

Speak to your dentist about Covid-19 and oral health

So, do not put off your visit to the dentist any longer. Make sure you speak to your trusted dentist for further information about the link between Covid-19 and oral health.

Zocdoc helps you find and book top-rated doctors, on demand. Visit them in their offices, or video chat with them from home. Check out doctors in your area .
Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Sign up now

Sign up for our newsletter and stay up to date with the latest information on dental health, dentures and dental hygiene.

Thank you for signing up!

Subscribe

Share:

PreviousLaughing teeth show: Veneers make even cloudy teeth shiny again!
NextMouthWatch Introduces TeleDent Mobile Dentistry Accelerator Awards to Help Mobile Dentistry Programs Rebound Stronger Than Ever.

About The Author

Kathryn O’Brien

    Related Posts

    What can be done if the Jawbone is not robust enough for dental implants?

    What can be done if the Jawbone is not robust enough for dental implants?

    December 28, 2020

    Your next smile with veneers

    Your next smile with veneers

    July 12, 2020

    Six facts everyone should know about the TMJ

    Six facts everyone should know about the TMJ

    October 3, 2021

    Beautiful teeth in San Antonio. Bleaching –  Safe and successful, but only in a dental clinic!

    Beautiful teeth in San Antonio. Bleaching – Safe and successful, but only in a dental clinic!

    April 21, 2022

    • Beautiful teeth in San Antonio. Bleaching –  Safe and successful, but only in a dental clinic!
      Beautiful teeth in San Antonio. Bleaching – Safe and successful, but only in a dental clinic!
      Apr 21, 2022 | Health, Teeth Whitening
    • Prophylaxis for dental implants: How to properly care for your implants!
      Prophylaxis for dental implants: How to properly care for your implants!
      Mar 26, 2022 | Dental Implants
    • Cola Cavities
      Cola Cavities
      Jan 16, 2022 | Health, NextSmile
    • Can Dentures Cause Headaches?
      Can Dentures Cause Headaches?
      Oct 10, 2021 | Dentures
    • Six facts everyone should know about the TMJ
      Six facts everyone should know about the TMJ
      Oct 3, 2021 | Health

    © 2020 by NextSmile
    3415 NE 25th Avenue, Portland, Oregon, 97212
    United States +1-971-266-4667

    East One Studios, Unit 102 W Universal House, 88 – 94 Wentworth Street E1 7SA, London,
    United Kingdom

    info@nextsmiledental.com

    The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations , warranties , guarantees or promises of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information provided. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

    Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress

    • Ask an Expert
    • Privacy
    • About NextSmile