Have you found yourself eating and drinking more sugary snacks and beverages during COVID-19 quarantine? If so, you are not alone. The isolation imposed by lockdown measures has led to feelings of isolation for many, along with associated feelings of mild depression. In fact, some people cope with the situation by consuming foods high in carbohydrates and sugar to help lift their mood.

Although the consumption of carbs and sugary foods may lead to a temporary boost in mood, it may also cause unwanted health issues. This is particularly true for the health of our teeth and gums since sugar is known to increase rates of tooth decay. In turn, tooth decay can lead to problems like gum disease that can eventually result in tooth loss.

Correcting Problems

Besides regularly brushing and flossing at home, the best way to head off any dental problems is to keep up with your routine dental exams and cleanings. As mundane as this process sounds, it goes a long way toward preventing unnecessary dental work in the future. If you are already keeping up with your regular dental exams and cleanings, please continue to do so. If not, please contact our office to resume your regular appointments.

Dental Exam and Cleaning

Before cleaning your teeth, your dental hygienist will visually examine your teeth, mouth, and gums to look for any potential problems. If any such problems are detected, the dentist may be called in for further examination. Likewise, X-rays may be taken if a problem is suspected.

For many people who increase their consumption of sugary foods and beverages during quarantine, an increase in plaque has been an unfortunate side effect. Plaque is a sticky biofilm that adheres to your teeth. The bacteria in plaque leads to an increase in acidity that can damage your tooth enamel, further leading to tooth decay.

The reason that it is so important to keep up with your regular dental cleanings is that we are able to remove plaque and tartar to prevent problems like gum disease.

Although gum disease is reversible when detected early, you never want to let things get that far. You want to avoid problems like needing dental fillings, a root canal procedure, or ongoing treatment for periodontal disease.

Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line using special dental tools. Although brushing and flossing at home is certainly very helpful, plaque and tartar can only be removed by a dental professional.

Schedule Your Appointment

If you have been putting off your regular dental exams and cleanings, we encourage you to get back on track by scheduling an appointment. We are ready to answer any questions or concerns that you may have regarding our COVID-19 health practices at our dental office. Moreover, new patients are welcome! Call 703-260-1200 or schedule your appointment here.